DDH is an abbreviation that stands for Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip. It is a medical condition that primarily affects infants and young children. DDH refers to an abnormal development or formation of the hip joint, leading to instability, misalignment, or dislocation of the hip joint. This condition can range from mild to severe and may involve one or both hips.
In normal circumstances, the hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint, where the rounded head of the thigh bone fits into the cup-shaped socket in the pelvis. However, in DDH, the hip joint may be shallow or the socket may not completely cover the head of the thigh bone, causing the joint to potentially dislocate or become unstable.
DDH can be present at birth or may develop during early infancy. It is more common in females, firstborn children, and those with a family history of the condition. Risk factors include breech presentation during pregnancy, swaddling techniques that restrict hip movement, and certain genetic conditions.
If left undiagnosed or untreated, DDH can lead to long-term complications such as limping, hip joint deformities, and early development of degenerative joint diseases like osteoarthritis.
Treatment options for DDH vary depending on the severity and age of the patient, but they often include the use of special harnesses, braces, or casts to help align and stabilize the hip joint. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be required to correct the hip joint alignment or to reposition the joint into its proper place. Regular monitoring and follow-up are crucial to ensuring the success of the treatment and preventing long-term complications.
