Hip Dysplasia: When do You Need Surgery?

 

Hip dysplasia is a condition in which the hip joint, which is normally ball and socket-shaped, doesn’t develop properly. This causes instability and eventually leads to arthritis of the hip joint. If you or someone you love suffers from hip dysplasia, you may be wondering when surgery is necessary. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of hip dysplasia, the symptoms and signs, and when surgery is typically recommended.

 

There are different types of hip dysplasia, including developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) and acetabular dysplasia. DDH is present at birth or shortly after and occurs when the ball and socket joint of the hip doesn’t form properly. Acetabular dysplasia usually occurs during adolescence or early adulthood and is characterized by a shallow hip socket that doesn’t fully cover the ball of the hip joint.

Symptoms of hip dysplasia include hip pain, stiffness, limping, and the inability to bear weight on one leg. In very young children, signs of hip dysplasia may include difficulty crawling or walking, uneven skin folds on the thigh or buttocks, and a clicking or popping sound when the hip joint moves. If you or someone you love is experiencing these symptoms or signs, it’s important to speak with a doctor or orthopedic surgeon to determine the best course of treatment.

In most cases, surgery isn’t needed for hip dysplasia. Instead, non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, bracing, and pain management can be effective. However, if the hip joint becomes severely damaged and arthritis develops, surgery may be necessary. The most common surgical procedure for hip dysplasia is called a periacetabular osteotomy (PAO). During this procedure, the hip socket is repositioned to provide better coverage for the ball joint of the hip.

If surgery is required for hip dysplasia, the recovery process can be lengthy, often taking several months. You’ll likely need to use crutches or a walker for several weeks, and you’ll need to attend physical therapy sessions to regain strength and mobility in the hip joint. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and not rush the recovery process.

 

Conclusion

Hip dysplasia is a serious condition that can cause pain, stiffness, and even disability if left untreated. While surgery is not typically needed for most cases, it may be necessary if the joint becomes severely damaged. If you or someone you love is experiencing symptoms of hip dysplasia, it’s important to speak with a doctor or orthopedic surgeon to determine the best course of treatment. Don’t let hip dysplasia hold you back from living a full and active life. If you're looking for an orthopedic surgeon in Deland, FL, contact Central Florida Bone & Joint Institute today for more information on hip dysplasia and our orthopedic services.