The term hip dysplasia refers to all congenital or acquired malpositions of the hip joint in a newborn. The position of the hip joint is important for the optimal distribution of force on the joint. The aim is to keep the load on the joint as low as possible and to ensure free and pain-free movement. The position of the hip depends on the position of the head of the femur in the acetabulum. If it protrudes too far outwards, it can wear out in some places or luxate due to instability.
Symptoms
Due to the unphysiological position of the hip, the joint cannot optimally counteract the external pressure loads. The distribution of force is more uneven and is increasingly directed at the bony structures. This leads to increased wear and tear of the cartilage over the years.
This can cause pain in the groin or hip area and cause patients some problems when standing or walking. It can also lead to a reduced mobility of the hip. The muscles around the hip can become tense or insufficient due to incorrect or excessive strain.
In addition, children do not always show this when they are in pain. It is therefore more difficult in children than in adults to recognize the first signs of hip dysplasia. The activity and movement motivation of the child should be observed. Specific questions to the child can also help. In any case, a hip dysplasia can be detected by a preventive medical checkup.
Therapy
Since the bones and muscles of the children are still developing, the position of the hips can be considered conservatively very well. The goals of conservative treatment depend on the symptom picture of hip dysplasia. The conservative approach also shows very good results in infants and children.
- Physiotherapy can be prescribed to maintain and improve the function of the joint. Exercises directly target the musculature and strengthen it. This can relieve the joint better and protect it from external forces.
- The muscles should also be stretched to prevent shortening.
- The activity is especially important in childhood and in any case has an effect on hip dysplasia.
- In order to avoid dislocation and also to correct the malposition, the joint can also be fixed by aids.
Bandages or spreading trousers are suitable for this purpose. Such fixation should then be worn continuously over a longer period of time and requires patience. If a dislocation of the hip has already occurred and no treatment has taken place up to this point, the femoral head can be reset. The hips are then fixed so that the joint remains in position.