Hip Dysplasia

About one in 1,000 babies born in the United States each year has hip dysplasia, a condition that may become debilitating when left untreated. If your child has signs of hip pain or similar concerns, turn to Pediatric Orthopedics of Nevada in Las Vegas. Board-certified orthopedic surgeon David Stewart, MD, treats hip dysplasia to ease symptoms and maximize mobility. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Stewart by calling the office or booking online today.

What is hip dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia is a common condition affecting a baby’s hip joints. It occurs when bones in the hips don’t fit together like they’re supposed to. 

Hip dysplasia is common among babies and young children. Left untreated, it can cause pain and mobility problems. Babies might be born with hip dysplasia (congenital hip dysplasia) or develop it over time. Fortunately, hip dysplasia is often highly treatable.

What are the symptoms of hip dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia symptoms may include:

• Hip pain
• Hip weakness
• Having legs that are different lengths
• Limping when walking
• Unstable or loose hip joints
• Moving one leg less than the other (in babies)
• One leg turns outward more than the other
• Wrinkled or uneven skin around the affected hip

Many babies are diagnosed with hip dysplasia before 6 months of age, sometimes right after birth. But older children, teenagers, and sometimes adults can also develop hip dysplasia.

What are the risk factors for hip dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia risk factors may include:

• Genetics
• Being female
• Being a firstborn baby
• Breech position during pregnancy
• Being born large
• Being swaddled tightly as a baby

However, anyone can develop hip dysplasia. It can affect either hip, but is most common on the left side.

Left untreated, hip dysplasia could increase the risk of hip dislocation, labral tears in the hip joint, unstable hips, and osteoarthritis.

How is hip dysplasia diagnosed?

Dr. Stewart diagnoses hip dysplasia by completing a physical exam and ordering imaging tests. He reviews your child’s medical history, lifestyle, and symptoms. They might undergo an ultrasound, hip X-rays, an MRI, or a CT scan to confirm a diagnosis and create an effective treatment plan. 

How is hip dysplasia treated?

Your child’s personalized hip dysplasia treatment might consist of:

• Physical therapy
• Bracing
• Surgery

Hip surgery can repair hip joint damage or replace parts of the affected joint in severe cases. Early treatment typically offers the most effective outcome. Babies’ hips often develop properly after wearing a brace for several months.

While you can’t prevent hip dysplasia, treatment at Pediatric Orthopedics of Nevada is highly effective. Follow up with Dr. Stewart to ensure long-lasting results.

Schedule a hip dysplasia evaluation for your child at Pediatric Orthopedics of Nevada by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.