Understanding Hip Dysplasia – Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Hip dysplasia is a condition in which the hip joint forms improperly, resulting in an unstable joint and, therefore, unnecessary wear and tear. Although it’s most commonly associated with infants, it can also affect adolescents and adults, resulting in pain, lack of mobility, and, if not treated, arthritis. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to avoid complications and to have a good quality of life.
Using non-surgical approaches such as physiotherapy or more complex surgeries, our Orthopaedic Team offers full treatments to re-establish joint motion and relieve pain.
In this post, we’re going to take a look at what it is, what causes it, typical symptoms to look out for, and what the best treatment options might be.
What is Hip Dysplasia?
Hip dysplasia is when a hip joint does not properly fit into the socket; we have a condition known as hip dysplasia. The round head of the femur (thigh bone) fits close but freely in the acetabulum (socket of the hip). But in dysplasia, the socket might be too shallow, or the femoral head might not sit right, and it could cause the joint to be unstable and to wear unevenly.
If left uncorrected, this misalignment can lead to:
- Chronic hip or groin pain
- Difficulty walking or limping
- Osteoarthritis at higher risk
- Joint degeneration over time
Although some people are born with hip dysplasia, it can also occur later in life as a result of injury, overuse, or hereditary reasons.
Causes of Hip Dysplasia
Genetic Factors
- Family history is a major factor — if a parent or sibling had hip dysplasia, you’re more at risk. Some inherited (e.g., Ehlers-Danlos syndrome) conditions can also cause joint laxity.
Environmental Factors
- Breech birth position – Bottom-first delivery puts more pressure on an infant’s hips and increases the risk of dysplasia.
- Injury or overuse in adults – Adults can suffer from repetitive strain on the hip joint or injury over time.
Lifestyle Influences
- Infant wrapping/swaddling – Tight swaddling may be a risk.
- Level of activity – Sports with high impact and high joint stress may make instability worse.
- Diet and weight – Some bone and joint problems can be caused by malnutrition or obesity.
Recent studies also indicate that the position of sleep in early infancy can affect hip development, so regular check-ups are needed.
Common Symptoms
Hip dysplasia symptoms by age:
In Infants:
- The creases on one thigh or buttock differ from the other.
- Restricted movement of the hips while nappy changing.
- Noises when moving the hip, such as clicking or popping sounds.
In Adolescents & Adults:
- Persistent hip or groin pain
- Limping or a waddling gait
- Stiffness, especially following being seated
- Sensation of instability or “giving way” of the hip
Being aware of and watching for these can help you seek evaluation by a specialist early if you or your child develops them.
Diagnosis
The following is a closer look at diagnosing hip dysplasia:
Physical Examination
- Inspecting the range of motion and stability of your joint.
- Assessing gait abnormalities.
Imaging Tests
- X-ray – The preferred test for assessing bone alignment.
- Ultrasound (for babies) – A very safe and effective way to identify developmental problems.
- MRI or CT scan – Provides clear images of soft tissues and complex circumstances.
Treatment Options
The symptoms will be as follows, though therapy varies according to age and severity:
Non-Surgical Approaches
- Bracing (for infants): A Pavlik harness that helps with hip control.
- Physiotherapy: Assists in mobilising and strengthening the muscles that support the joint.
- Medication: Anti-inflammatories or corticosteroid injections for short-term benefit.
Surgical Treatments
- Periacetabular Osteotomy (PAO): The hip socket is repositioned to correct alignment (common in young adults).
- Hip Arthroscopy: A less invasive operation to mend injured cartilage.
- Hip Replacement Surgery: Best suited for those with advanced arthritis or loss of joint cartilage.
Importance of Early Diagnosis
Early detection leads to:
- Better rates of success among treated cases.
- Decreased risk of chronic pain or disability.
- Reduced need for invasive procedures in later life.
Routine infant screening and timely assessment of symptoms in adults can help make a difference.
When to See a Specialist
See a specialist if you have:
- Persistent hip or groin pain.
- Difficulty walking or limping.
- Reduced hip mobility.
Early consultation can avoid complications down the line.
Conclusion
Hip dysplasia can be corrected, but the sooner you can catch it, the better. Knowing its cause, identifying its symptoms, and getting prompt medical attention can help keep your joints healthy and mobile. There are treatments that will work, non-surgical or otherwise.
If you or your loved ones are showing symptoms of hip dysplasia, don’t wait to reach out to your healthcare specialist.
