The position of the hip joint is important for the optimal distribution of force on the joint. This is to ensure that the joint is loaded as little as possible and that the person can move freely and painlessly. 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 the instability. The following text explains the importance of early treatment in children with hip dysplasia and describes exercises to encourage the children and their parents to take initiative. Comprehensive information about childhood diseases can be found on this page: Physiotherapy for childhood diseases
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 unphysiological force distribution has various consequences: In addition, children do not always respond to pain.
It is therefore more difficult to detect the first signs of hip dysplasia in children than in adults. 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. Are you looking for further information about hip dysplasia? Then this article is just the right thing for you: Childhood hip dysplasia
- Increased wear of the cartilage
- Pain in the groin or hip area that causes the patient some problems when standing or walking
- It can also lead to a reduced mobility of the hip
- The muscles around the hips can become tense or insufficient due to incorrect or excessive strain
Therapy/treatment
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. Comprehensive information on this can be found in these articles:
- Through exercises the muscles are directly addressed and a strengthening is achieved. This can better relieve the joint and protect it from external forces.
- The muscles should also be stretched to prevent shortening.
This 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 been carried out up to this point, the femoral head can be repositioned. The hips are then fixed so that the joint remains in position.
- Physiotherapy for childhood hip dysplasia
- Physiotherapy for a child’s hip dislocation
