Physiotherapeutic measures

Causes of hip dysplasia can be multiple pregnancies, premature births, family history and the position of the child in the mother’s womb. Immediately after birth, asymmetry, difficulty in abduction and a gluteal fold can be detected. An ultrasound examination ultimately provides clarity.

The greatest risk in hip joint dysplasia is the risk of dislocation due to the delayed ossification of the acetabular roof. In physiotherapy for hip dysplasia, it is especially important to positively influence the joint mobility and the position of the femoral head. The physiotherapist first tests the mobility in the hip, especially the rotation.

In most cases there is a rotation restriction, which is due to the poor fixation of the hip in the socket. Mobilization in the affected direction and manual therapy activates a metabolic process that is intended to remove pain mediators. In addition, the femoral head is brought into the correct position.

Mobility is improved in the long term, so that the strain during sports can also be increased. In addition to direct mobilization at the joint, the tone of the muscles should be reduced. In most cases, there is an increased tonus in the area of the adductors, which can be reduced by soft tissue techniques.

If other areas of the musculature are possibly tense due to incorrect loading, this can also be improved by soft tissue techniques or fascial solution. A gait analysis is also advisable, since the symptoms are aggravated due to the incorrect load when walking. This reveals further muscle imbalances, which can be trained with the appropriate strength training. Insoles may also help to improve the gait pattern. These should be prescribed by a doctor.The articles “Physiotherapy for hip disorders”, “Exercises for gait disorders” and “Physiotherapy for childhood hip dysplasia” may also be of interest to you.

Is physical activity allowed in hip dysplasia?

Sport in case of hip dysplasia is generally not a problem. However, in order to avoid a worsening and an incipient arthrosis or possible dislocation, strengthening and stretching exercises should be done continuously and accompanied by physiotherapy. Furthermore, excessive jumping and stopping sports should be avoided, as the pressure on the hip joint is very high.

Jogging should also be avoided during the acute phase, but can be gently resumed once the symptoms have subsided and muscle strength has improved. Gentle sports like swimming or cycling are no problem. Yoga, Pilates and other relaxing sports are very effective for stretching the muscles surrounding the hips.