Exercises for hip dysplasia
The treatment of a hip dysplasia often starts with the newborn baby, where a special wrapping technique and also exercises are performed by the parents to counteract the malposition of the hip. The children are wrapped so that the hip is bent as far as possible. In these cases, carrying the child in a sling is also very beneficial.
If the hip dysplasia persists beyond a certain age, so-called spreader pants are often used. An orthosis in which the femoral head is pressed more into the socket. The legs and hips are also bent and spread.
In adulthood, exercises to strengthen the muscles and improve mobility by means of targeted physiotherapy are recommended. It is important to counteract arthritis of the hip joint with these exercises. Exercises can also be done at home.
The movement of the hip joint can be promoted by first swinging one leg sideways back and forth. This exercise can also be supported by a gymnastic band (Thera- Band). A further exercise is also performed in a standing position.
The heel remains firmly on the ground, while the tip of the foot and the leg rotates inwards and outwards from the hip. Gymnastics to strengthen the muscles around the hip joint is done lying down. The patient lies on his side and slightly bends his legs.
The Thera- Band is now applied around the upper thigh. The other side is held opposite the patient by a partner or a solid object. The patient now stretches the leg against the resistance and gives way again.
Repeat this exercise several times and then change sides. A similar exercise is performed in a supine position with bent legs. Now the pelvis is lifted off the floor and an attempt is made to hold it.
Upper body and thighs should form a line. The muscles for turning the hips outwards can also be strengthened by specific exercises. To do this, the patient sits on the floor with outstretched legs.
The Thera- Band is applied around the feet. Now feet are moved against the resistance. In the same way, the band can also be applied just above the knees.
Here, too, the movement takes place against the traction of the band. In the opposite way, the muscles on the inside of the thigh can be strengthened. The exercises should be performed slowly and consciously.
It is important not to exercise when there is pain. In addition, patients with a known hip dysplasia should first be instructed by physiotherapists before they perform the exercises alone. In this way it can be better guaranteed that the exercises have the desired effect.
Through sports and physiotherapy we try to prevent a premature wear of the hip joint. However, it is important to note that not all sports are suitable for patients with hip dysplasia.In sports, care should be taken to ensure that even and flowing movements are performed and that no sports with fast and abrupt movements are selected. Suitable sports are, for example, swimming or water gymnastics, Nordic walking, cycling and inline skating on straight, even surfaces.
These sports promote the development of muscles without putting too much strain on the joints. Yoga or Pilates are also sports that come into question. On the other hand, the popular endurance sport of jogging is unsuitable for patients with hip dysplasia, as the joints are put under heavy strain.
