Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip, commonly called DDH, is a condition seen in some newborns where the hip joint does not develop in its normal, stable form.
Although the name may sound complex, DDH is a well-understood condition in pediatric orthopedics.
Most importantly, when identified early, it is usually simple to treat with excellent outcomes.
What is Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip?
At its simplest, DDH refers to instability of the hip joint.
The hip is a ball-and-socket joint. In a healthy hip, the rounded head of the thigh bone (the ball) sits securely within the socket of the pelvis.
In DDH, the fit is not perfect. The socket may be shallow, or the supporting structures may be loose. This allows the ball to move excessively or, in more significant cases, slip partially or completely out of place.
DDH exists on a spectrum:
- Mild instability
- Partial displacement (subluxation)
- Complete dislocation
Early identification determines how simple the treatment can be.
Which Babies Are at Higher Risk?
DDH can occur in any baby. However, certain factors increase the likelihood:
- Firstborn babies
- Female infants
- Babies born in breech position (feet first in the womb)
- A positive family history of DDH
Even in the absence of these risk factors, routine newborn examinations are important because DDH may still occur.
What Should Parents Look For?
While many cases are detected during routine pediatric examinations, some signs parents may notice include:
- Uneven thigh or buttock skin folds
- One leg appearing shorter than the other
- Limited movement of one hip during diaper changes
- A limp or waddling walk in toddlers who have started walking
These signs do not automatically mean DDH is present, but they warrant evaluation by a doctor.
Why Does DDH Happen?
DDH develops during the earliest stages of life — either in the womb or shortly after birth.
Several factors contribute:
- Positioning inside the uterus, especially in breech presentation
- Limited space in late pregnancy
- Natural ligament looseness influenced by maternal hormones
In most cases, DDH is not caused by anything a parent did or did not do. It is a developmental variation that modern medicine understands very well.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis
The first few months of life represent a critical window for hip development.
When DDH is diagnosed early — particularly before 6 months of age — treatment is usually straightforward.
A soft brace called a Pavlik harness is commonly used. This device gently holds the hips in a natural, flexed “frog-leg” position, allowing the joint to develop normally.
The harness is safe and not painful for the baby.
If diagnosed between 6 months and 2 years of age, treatment may involve repositioning the hip under anesthesia and applying a hip spica cast, typically worn for about three months.
In children diagnosed after walking age, treatment can become more complex and may involve surgical correction.
This progression clearly illustrates why early detection makes such a significant difference.
Can Parents Help Reduce the Risk?
One important preventive measure is hip-safe swaddling.
When swaddling a baby:
- Avoid wrapping the legs tightly and straight.
- Allow the hips to bend and move outward naturally.
Providing room for healthy hip movement supports proper joint development.
Moving Forward with Confidence
Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip is a condition that pediatric orthopedics has managed successfully for decades.
With timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, most children go on to develop strong, stable hips and lead completely active lives.
Awareness is the first step. If you have any concern — however small — it is always better to have your child evaluated.
At Pinnacle OrthoCenter Hospital, our Pediatric Orthopedic team is dedicated to ensuring that every child grows with healthy bones and confident movement.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact us at:
02240763000 / 7028859555
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