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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.

Possibili Cause

  • 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)

Cosa Puoi Fare

  • 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)

Quando Andare dal Medico?

  • 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

Note per Fascia d'Età

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.

Domande Frequenti

Does wide swaddling harm my baby?
No, quite the opposite! Wide swaddling supports the natural development of hip joints. The M-position (legs flexed and spread, knees higher than bottom) is the physiologically optimal posture. Carrying in a sling in this position is even beneficial.
Does my baby need to wear an abduction brace?
If the U3 ultrasound shows delayed hip maturation, yes. The brace is usually worn 23 hours a day (removed for bathing). It sounds bad, but babies adjust quickly. Treatment duration is usually 6-12 weeks.
How can I tell if my baby's hips are healthy?
The safest method is the ultrasound at the U3 check-up. At home, you can check for symmetric skin folds, equal leg length, and even abduction of both legs. BUT: dysplasia can be present even with normal-looking findings — that's why the ultrasound is so important.

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Questo articolo è a solo scopo informativo. Non sostituisce il consulto medico individuale. In caso di preoccupazioni, contatta il tuo pediatra, la tua ostetrica o chiama il pronto soccorso.