developmental dysplasia of the hip

A problem with how a baby's hip joint forms, present at birth or developing in the first months. The ball at the top of the thigh bone sits loosely in the socket and may slip partly or fully out. It is more common in girls, firstborn babies, babies born breech and babies with a family history. Infants are usually treated with a Pavlik harness that holds the hips bent and apart; older children may need a cast or surgery.

Newborn hip checks include the Ortolani and Barlow tests and looking for uneven thigh or buttock skin folds. Teach parents to keep a Pavlik harness on as prescribed without changing the straps, to check the skin under the straps, and to swaddle with room for the legs to bend and move at the hips.