Congenital Hip Dysplasia (CHD) refers to the abnormal or delayed development of
the hip joint, in which the socket and thigh bone can become dislocated. This
condition occurs in 1.5 per 1,000 births and is 8 times more common in girls [1].
Normally, a child's thigh bone (femur) sits perfectly centred in the hip socket
(acetabulum). Occasionally, however, during gestation or shortly thereafter, the
two parts become unaligned, allowing excess movement in the joint. Usually this
involves the femur moving upward out of the socket.
CHD can lead to many physical problems during life, including leg and hip pain,
a limp, limited range of motion, legs of different lengths, and early on-set
arthritis. The risk factors for this condition are being the first born, female,
a breech delivery and family history. Early detection of CHD is vital to ensure
the development of the joints can be corrected and prevent long-term problems.
There are clinical signs picked up by a chiropractor that are a warning for this
condition:
- Shortening of one leg
- Increase in asymmetry at the thigh skin folds
- Limited outward flexibility of the hip in a flexed position due to shortening
and contracting of muscles
- Waddling type of walk
- Clunking noise in hip when walking
However some children may not exhibit any of these signs and it is not until a
physical examination of the hip joints occurs where the dysfunction is noted.
Chiropractors can perform simple checks for hip problems as part of routine
post-natal checks that all newborns should attend six times in their first year
of life. If a problem is detected, chiropractic adjustments can assist in
restoring the joint to its proper functioning. Chiropractic uses strengthening,
range of motion exercises, pain control and functional activities. Your
Chiropractor can also issue take home exercises to continue the strengthening
and rehabilitation process from home to complement the chiropractors treatment.
To ensure that your child has the best chance of healthy development, it is
important to
detect problems early. A simple, fast check-up with a chiropractor
at Back to Basics Chiropractic may be the best action you ever take for your
child's long-term health and happiness.
1. Congenital Dislocation of the Hip : Case Report Quon JA, O'Connor SM, Mierau
DR, Cassidy JD the Journal of Canadian Chiropractic Association 1989 March;
33(1) 22-26
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