Developmental dysplasia of the hip
Diagnosing DDH
Within 72 hours of giving birth, your baby's hips will be checked as part of the newborn physical examination. Another hip examination is carried out when your baby is between six and eight weeks old.
The examination involves gentle manipulation of your baby's hip joints to check if there are any problems, and shouldn't cause them any discomfort.
Anultrasound scan is usually recommended within a few weeks if:
- the hip feels unstable
- there's a family history of childhood hip problems
- your baby was born in thebreech position (feet first with their bottom downwards)
- you've hadtwins or a multiple birth
- your baby wasborn prematurely before the 37th week of pregnancy
Sometimes a baby's hip stabilises on its own before the scan is due.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a condition where the 'ball and socket' joint of the hips doesn't properly form in babies and young children.
Diagnosing DDH
Within 72 hours of giving birth, your baby's hips will be checked as part of the newborn physical examination. Another hip examination is carried out when your baby is between six and eight weeks old.
Treating DDH
Pavlik harnessBabies diagnosed with DDH early in life are usually treated with a fabric splint known as a Pavlik harness. This secures both of your baby's hips in a stable position and allows them to
Late-stage signs of DDH
The newborn physical examination and the check at six to eight weeks aim to diagnose DDH early. However, sometimes hip problems can develop after these checks.It's important to contact your GP as soon
Preventing DDH
It's important to remember that DDH can't be prevented and it's nobody's fault. A baby's hips are naturally more flexible for a short period after birth.However, if your baby spends a lot of time tigh
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