Physical Therapy For Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia, or congenital hip dysplasia as it is also named, is a condition that may occur from birth. Some people with this condition may not notice it, while others experience intense pain.

This condition is indicated by problems with the ball and the socket part of the hip joint due to the misfit of the femur with the pelvis, giving the impression of the hip being “loose”.

Symptoms

It is possible that this condition can be caught at birth. Later down the road, the following symptoms may be present:

-Hip abductor muscle fatigue

-Sore hips upon extended periods of walking or standing

–Hip labral tear

-Damage to hip cartilage

-Hip arthritis

Why Does Hip Dysplasia Occur?

Hip dysplasia can occur by two factors. Hip dysplasia is either present from birth or occurs during hip development.

When discovered in the neonatal phase the treatment has a much faster response than at any stage of life. Early diagnosis will shorten the treatment period and provide more concrete results.

Complications Caused By Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia causes damage to the surrounding cartilage. Because of this, it can lead to hip arthritis, osteoarthritis or hip labral tears.

[Related article: Physical Therapy For Hip Replacement]

Treatment

When not properly treated, dysplasia of the hip can generate movement limitations and the child still develops osteoarthritis and other adult pathologies in addition to intense pain. Treatment is essential to provide a quality life and without the need for surgical interventions and medication treatments for pain control when adults.

If caught as an infant, this can be corrected with a soft brace. Physical therapy may help mild cases of hip dysplasia by strengthening the muscles near the hip. This serves to improve function.

If you notice any of the above symptoms of dysplasia or hip pain, physical therapy may be able to help. To see what physical therapy can do for you, contact us today.