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Pathology

The acetabulum is shallow

The ligaments that help to hold the joint in place are lax

Dislocation

The head of the femur is completely out of the socket.

Common in

Subluxation

The head of the femur is simply loose in the socket.

The bone can be moved within the socket, but will not dislocate.

Cause

• Girls
• Firstborn children
• Breech pregnancy
• Family history of DDH (parents or siblings)
• Oligohydramnios

Symptoms

• Legs of different lengths
• Uneven thigh skin folds
• Limping, toe walking, or a waddling gait

Treatment

Depends on a child’s age.

Newborns. 

Pavlik harness, for 1 to 2 months

1 month to 6 months. 

Reduced in a harness.

Wear for 6 weeks to 12 weeks

6 months to 2 years. 

Closed reduction and spica casting

6 months to 2 years. 

Open surgery especially after failure of Harness