Hip Dysplasia - Birth To 6 Months

Developmental hip dysplasia is the most common musculoskeletal condition affecting newborns. It most commonly affects infants in breech position or those with a family history of hip dysplasia. Early detection starts with an evaluation of hip stability and ultrasound imaging for anyone with an abnormal examination or significant risk factors. Pavlik harness treatment has a high rate of success when initiated early and results in substantial quality of life improvement for patients. Failure to recognize and treat hip dysplasia in an infant results in malformation of the hip joint and leads to early onset hip arthritis.