Comprehensive Guide to Hip Dysplasia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments.
It is a spectrum of pathophysiological and anatomical abnormalities in which the Acetabulum has a superior, posterior, and anterior deficiency, failing to correctly cover the femoral head, leading to chronic subluxation or dislocation. This pathology is a congenital and developmental disorder present from birth. Women, breech births, and individuals with a first-degree relative with hip dysplasia are at higher risk.
In children, when early detection is achieved before they walk, non-surgical management through continuous immobilization in hip flexion can be performed. If not diagnosed in time, the child will require surgical management, ideally at an early age. In symptomatic adolescents or young adults without osteoarthritis, a Periacetabular Osteotomy is usually necessary.
Symptoms
In infants, the only subtle sign detectable by parents is limited leg abduction; otherwise, it is undetectable. In children, there is no pain, but rather a slight limp. Adolescents or young adults may present mild limping during simple activities, associated with lateral hip pain.
Inguinal pain will appear, which is progressive rather than sudden, increasing over time as the injury worsens, generally related to damage to the Labrum and the anterior acetabular rim. If not treated in time, it leads to articular cartilage damage, also known as Osteoarthritis.
What should I do?
In adulthood, the first step when experiencing strong groin pain is to see a specialist. They will evaluate gait, limb length, muscle power, and range of motion, ordering diagnostic images to determine the joint's state. The ideal time for treatment is within the first 4 to 8 months of life.
Management:
As previously mentioned, for symptomatic young adults with very mild Osteoarthritis, an option to reduce the consequences of Hip Dysplasia is Periacetabular Osteotomy, which involves reorienting the Acetabulum to improve femoral head coverage.
This reduces strain on the Acetabular Labrum, capsule, and hip ligaments. Proper nutrition, weight management, and low-impact exercise are key factors in management.
If left untreated, Hip Dysplasia can cause severe joint damage with sequelae appearing in early adulthood, often requiring a Total Hip Replacement.
