All treatment for developmental dysplasia of the hip is aimed at putting the thighbone in its usual position, allowing the femur and hip socket to grow as it normally would. Babies treated for this condition are expected to grow and develop like other children their age.

Choice of treatment for developmental dysplasia of the hip depends on the age of the child and the ease of keeping the femur placed normally within the hip socket (pelvis). Treatment may include:

The use of splints, harnesses, or casts. Babies younger than age 6 months may be treated for developmental dysplasia of the hip by splints, harnesses, or casts. These keep the hips bent so that the thighs are out to the sides (frog-leg position). Splints, harnesses, or casts can be worn for as long as several weeks to several months, depending on how long it takes the hip joint to form correctly.

Traction. Older children with developmental dysplasia of the hip may need to be treated with traction. Traction is the use of weights, pulleys, and ropes to hold bones in their correct positions.

Surgery. Older children and children whose hips do not improve with other treatments may need surgery. During surgery, the surgeon places the femur into the hip socket. After surgery to correct developmental dysplasia of the hip, the child usually needs to wear a cast to keep the hip joint in the correct position until the area is healed. The child may also need special exercises designed to strengthen the muscles and joints.

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