This article is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. If in doubt, contact your paediatrician or midwife.
Hip Dysplasia in Babies
Hip dysplasia is a developmental disorder of the hip joints where the socket is too shallow and cannot properly hold the femoral head. It affects about 2-4% of all newborns and is screened via ultrasound at the U3 check-up. Detected early, it is very treatable — wide swaddling is often sufficient.
Possible Causes
- 1Genetic predisposition — runs in families
- 2Breech position during pregnancy — most common risk factor
- 3Firstborns and girls are more commonly affected (hormone relaxin)
- 4Low amniotic fluid (oligohydramnios) — restricted movement in the womb
- 5Too-tight swaddling or wrapping with legs straight (traditional wrapping techniques)
What You Can Do
- Wide swaddling: wide nappy or insert that keeps legs in abduction position
- Abduction brace (Tübingen hip flexion splint) — prescribed for mild to moderate dysplasia
- Pavlik harness: soft harness that holds hip joints in optimal position (6-12 weeks)
- Baby carrier/sling in spread-squat position — promotes hip development
- In severe dysplasia: plaster cast or surgical reduction under anaesthesia (rarely needed)
When to See a Doctor
- Clearly asymmetric skin folds on thighs and buttocks
- One leg appears shorter than the other
- Limited hip abduction (one leg cannot be spread as wide)
- Clicking or clunking sound during leg movement
- Limping or waddling gait when learning to walk
Age-Specific Notes
Hip screening via ultrasound is part of the U3 check-up (4th-6th week of life) and detects 99% of cases. The earlier treatment begins, the better the outcome. In the first 6 weeks, wide swaddling is often enough. Up to 3 months, the abduction brace is very successful. After 6 months, treatment becomes significantly more involved. Untreated hip dysplasia can lead to early arthritis and walking disability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does wide swaddling harm my baby?
Does my baby need to wear an abduction brace?
How can I tell if my baby's hips are healthy?
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This article is for general information only. It does not replace individual medical advice. If you have concerns, contact your paediatrician, midwife, or call emergency services.