Congenital hip dysplasia (DDH) is a condition that affects the development of the hip joint in babies. Imagine the hip joint as a ball-and-socket, where the ball (femoral head) of the thigh bone fits snugly into the socket (acetabulum) of the pelvis. In DDH, the socket may be shallow or underdeveloped, causing the ball to be loose or even slip out of place (dislocated).
This can happen before birth (congenital) or in the first few months of life (developmental). While it may sound scary, early diagnosis and treatment of DDH can lead to full recovery and a lifetime of healthy hips for your little one. We will also highlight how you can start a medical negligence claim.
How Common is DDH?
DDH is actually more common than you might think, affecting around 1 in 1,000 babies in the UK. It’s also more likely to occur in girls than boys, and in babies who are breech (born bottom first). Certain family risks can also play a role, so if you have a close relative with DDH, be sure to mention it to your midwife or health visitor.
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Spotting the Signs of DDH
Because babies can’t exactly tell us their hips feel loose, it’s important to be aware of the signs that might indicate DDH. Here are some things to watch for:
- Uneven leg folds: This can be a subtle sign, but if the skin folds on your baby’s buttocks or thighs appear uneven, with one side looking deeper than the other, it could be a clue.
- Clicking sounds: Sometimes, when you move your baby’s hips, you might hear a clicking sound. While this doesn’t always mean DDH, it’s worth mentioning to your doctor.
- Leg length discrepancy: If one leg appears shorter than the other, especially when your baby is lying down with their legs straight, it could be a sign of DDH.
- Difficulty walking: As your baby starts to put weight on their legs, a limp or difficulty walking could be a later indicator of DDH.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis
The good news is that DDH is highly treatable, especially when caught early. During routine newborn checks, your doctor will examine your baby’s hips for any signs of looseness or instability. If there are any concerns, they may recommend further tests, such as an ultrasound or X-ray, to get a clearer picture of the hip joint.
Early diagnosis is crucial because the younger your baby is, the more adaptable their joints are. This means treatment can be more gentle and effective in ensuring the hip joint develops properly.
Treatment Options for DDH
The type of treatment your baby receives will depend on the severity of their DDH. Here’s a breakdown of some common approaches:
Swaddling:
While traditional swaddling with tightly wrapped legs can increase the risk of DDH, a special “hip-healthy” swaddle that allows for more hip movement can actually be beneficial in some mild cases.
Harnesses:
These soft braces hold your baby’s legs in a wider position, gently guiding the hip joint into the socket. This is a common treatment for mild to moderate DDH.
Casting:
In more severe cases, a cast might be needed to hold the hip joint in place and promote proper development.
Surgery:
For the most severe cases, surgery may be necessary to reposition the hip joint. However, this is relatively rare and advancements in early diagnosis mean it’s becoming less common.
Living with DDH: A Positive Outlook
If your child is diagnosed with DDH, it’s natural to feel worried. However, with early diagnosis and treatment, the vast majority of children with DDH go on to live healthy, active lives without any long-term problems. Regular check-ups with your doctor will be important to monitor progress and ensure proper development.
Remember, knowledge is power! By familiarizing yourself with the signs and treatment options for DDH, you can play a vital role in ensuring your child’s hip health and a bright future filled with all the adventures little legs were meant for.
Making a Medical Negligence Claim for Congenital Hip Dysplasia (DDH)
At National Claims, we understand the immense impact that a missed or delayed diagnosis of congenital hip dysplasia (DDH) can have on a child’s life. If you believe your child’s DDH was due to medical negligence, our team is here to help you navigate the claims process and seek the compensation your child deserves.
Free Consultation
The first step is a free consultation. During this confidential discussion, we’ll listen attentively as you share your child’s experience and the medical history related to their DDH diagnosis. We’ll then assess the circumstances of your case, and connect you with a solicitor who will be able to assist you with your case.
“No Win, No Fee”
National Claims understands that the financial burden of caring for a child with DDH can be significant. That’s why we operate on a “No Win, No Fee” basis. There are no upfront legal fees associated with your case. Our fees are only dependent on successfully securing compensation for your child. This allows you to focus on your child’s well-being without the added stress of financial concerns.
*Customers pay up to 25% (incl. VAT) of the amount recovered towards solicitor costs and if you cancel outside your cooling off period, you may be charged a fee.
Conclusion
Congenital hip dysplasia (DDH) may sound daunting, but with awareness and early intervention, it’s a highly treatable condition. By familiarizing yourself with the signs and understanding the importance of early diagnosis, you can play a proactive role in your child’s hip health. Remember, most babies with DDH go on to live active lives free from long-term complications. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor. Together, you can ensure your little one has the strong foundation they need for a lifetime of happy exploration.
Contact us today to speak to one of our claims specialists who will be able to help you get started on your claim.
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