When you’re changing your baby’s diaper and notice one leg looks shorter than the other, or the skin folds don’t match up, it’s natural to feel worried. These could be early signs of hip dysplasia in babies—a condition where the hip joint doesn’t form properly.

But here’s the good news: when spotted early, hip dysplasia is highly treatable. Most babies who receive timely care grow up to run, jump, and play just like other children. This guide will help you understand what to look for and when to seek help.

What is Hip Dysplasia in Babies?

Hip dysplasia in babies, also called Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH), happens when the hip joint doesn’t develop correctly. Think of a healthy hip as a ball sitting snugly in a socket. With hip dysplasia, the socket is too shallow, or the ball doesn’t fit properly. This can range from mild looseness to complete dislocation.

About 1-2 babies per 1,000 are born with this condition. Girls are four times more likely to have it than boys. The condition can develop before birth, during delivery, or in the first year of life.

7 Warning Signs Every Parent Should Know

Catching hip dysplasia early makes treatment easier. Watch for these signs during diaper changes:

1. Uneven skin folds – One thigh or buttock has more creases than the other

2. One leg looks shorter – When you bend both knees, one sits lower than the other

3. Limited hip movement – Difficulty spreading one leg to the side during diaper changes

4. Clicking sounds – You hear or feel a “clunk” when moving your baby’s legs

5. One foot turns out differently – The affected leg rotates outward more than the other

6. Uneven crawling or walking – Your child limps or favors one leg

7. Baby prefers one side – Doesn’t kick both legs equally or only rolls one direction

Remember: Not all babies with hip dysplasia show obvious signs. This is why regular check-ups with your pediatrician matter.

What Causes Hip Dysplasia?

Several factors increase the risk of baby hip dysplasia:

Breech position: Babies born bottom-first have higher risk
Family history: Having a parent or sibling with hip dysplasia increases chances
First-born babies: Less womb space can affect hip development
Being female: Hormones make girls more susceptible
Tight swaddling: Wrapping legs too straight can contribute to the problem

You can help reduce risk by swaddling your baby with hips bent and free to move, and using baby carriers that support healthy hip positioning.

How Doctors Check for Hip Dysplasia

Your baby’s doctor will screen for hip dysplasia during regular visits. They’ll:

Gently move your baby’s hips to check stability
Look at leg length and skin folds
Watch how your baby moves

If something seems off, your doctor may recommend:

Ultrasound (for babies under 6 months) – A safe, painless way to see the hip structure
X-rays (for babies over 4-6 months) – Used once bones are more developed

Studies show that early screening catches 90% of cases, leading to better results with simpler treatment.

Treatment Options That Work

The earlier hip dysplasia is found, the simpler the treatment. Here’s what to expect:

▸Pavlik Harness (For Babies Under 6 Months)

This is the most common treatment. The soft harness holds your baby’s hips in the correct position for 6-12 weeks. Success rate? An impressive 90-95% when started early.

Your baby can still move their legs and be held. Most parents say their little ones adjust within days.

▸Abduction Brace (For Older Babies)

If your baby is over 6 months old, a stiffer brace might be needed. It keeps the legs in a “frog-leg” position and is worn for several months.

▸Closed Reduction

If the harness doesn’t work, doctors can reposition the hip under anesthesia. Your baby will then wear a cast for 2-4 months.

▸Surgery (For Severe Cases)

Reserved for complex situations or late diagnosis. With proper surgical treatment, children still have excellent long-term outcomes.

▸Will My Baby Walk Normally?

Yes! With early treatment, over 95% of children with hip dysplasia lead completely normal, active lives. They participate fully in sports, dancing, and all childhood activities.

Most children who wear a harness as infants show no lasting effects. You’d never know they had the condition.

▸Living with a Hip Harness

Many parents worry about daily care, but it’s manageable:

Diaper changes: Definitely possible—you’ll get the hang of it quickly
Bathing: Your doctor will show you how to clean under the harness
Sleep: Babies adapt fast and sleep comfortably
Bonding: You can still cuddle, breastfeed, and comfort your baby normally

When to See a Doctor

Don’t wait if you notice:

Any warning signs mentioned above
Limping when your child starts walking
Hip or leg pain in older children
Any concerns about your baby’s hip development

Hip dysplasia becomes harder to treat the longer it goes undiagnosed. Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, get it checked.

Get the Right Care in Mumbai

If you’ve noticed signs of hip dysplasia in your baby, or your child has been diagnosed, getting proper medical care is crucial.

Dr. Atul Bhaskar, a Paediatric Orthopaedic Surgeon in Mumbai, specializes in treating hip dysplasia and other childhood conditions. With extensive experience in both harness treatment and surgical options when needed, Dr. Bhaskar helps families navigate this journey with confidence.

Why families choose Dr. Atul Bhaskar:

Specialized training in children’s hip conditions
Experience with Pavlik harness fitting and monitoring
Surgical expertise for complex cases
Clear explanations that parents understand
Supportive care throughout your child’s growth

Your baby’s hip health is important. Early diagnosis and proper treatment mean your little one can grow up healthy, active, and pain-free.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Atul Bhaskar today to get the answers and treatment your family needs.