Symptoms of Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip
Symptoms of developmental dysplasia of the hip can vary significantly depending on the age of the child and the severity of the condition. In many cases, particularly in newborns, developmental dysplasia of the hip does not cause any obvious signs and is only detected during routine screening. However, as a child grows, more noticeable symptoms may develop if the condition remains untreated.
Symptoms in Newborns and Infants
Hip instability: The hip may feel loose or dislocate with gentle movement during physical examination.
Asymmetry in leg length: One leg may appear shorter than the other.
Uneven skin folds: Extra or uneven folds may be noticeable on the thighs or buttocks.
Limited range of motion: Difficulty in spreading the infant’s thighs apart during nappy changes.
Audible ‘click’ or ‘clunk’: A sound or sensation during hip movement that may indicate dislocation.
Routine screening by a healthcare provider includes the Ortolani and Barlow manoeuvres to detect any hip instability in the first few weeks of life.
Symptoms in Older Infants and Toddlers
Delayed walking: The child may begin walking later than expected.
Limping or waddle: Walking may appear uneven or abnormal.
Toe walking: The child may favour walking on their toes on the affected side.
Exaggerated lumbar curve: An inward curve of the lower back (lordosis) may develop in bilateral DDH.
In some cases, especially when the condition is mild, symptoms may be so subtle that they go unnoticed until a child begins walking or even later in childhood.
Adolescent or Adult Symptoms | Symptoms of Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip
If undiagnosed until adolescence or adulthood, individuals may experience:
Hip or groin pain
Stiffness and limited mobility
Early onset osteoarthritis
In conclusion, symptoms of developmental dysplasia of the hip are age-dependent and range from subtle instability in infants to noticeable gait problems in toddlers. Early screening and awareness of risk factors are essential for timely diagnosis and intervention.
[Next: Diagnosis of Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip →]
