Hip dysplasia is a condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop in the normal way. In a healthy hip, the ball at the top of the thigh bone (femur) sits securely inside a rounded socket in the pelvis. With hip dysplasia, the socket may be too shallow or positioned incorrectly, meaning it doesn’t fully cover the ball. This can lead to increased wear on the joint and a higher risk of dislocation, pain or early arthritis.
It’s a condition that can affect babies, children, teenagers and adults – although the signs and treatment options can be quite different depending on age.
How the hip works
The hip is a ball-and-socket joint designed to allow smooth, stable movement. The socket (acetabulum) is lined with cartilage that cushions the joint, while strong ligaments and muscles help keep it in place. If the ball isn’t held securely, it can move abnormally, leading to instability, uneven pressure and eventual joint damage.
Causes of hip dysplasia
The exact cause of hip dysplasia isn’t always clear, but several factors can contribute:
- Developmental issues in infancy – sometimes linked to breech birth or tight swaddling
- Genetics – family history can increase the likelihood
- Joint laxity – looser ligaments may allow more movement in the hip
- Injury or abnormal loading – in older children or adults
Symptoms of hip dysplasia
Signs of hip dysplasia can vary:
- In babies and young children – differences in leg length, limited movement in one leg or a hip that clicks
- In teenagers and adults – groin pain, hip stiffness, a limp, clicking or locking and pain after activity
In adults, symptoms are often mistaken for muscle strain or early arthritis, which can delay diagnosis.
Diagnosing hip dysplasia
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and orthopaedic imaging:
- Ultrasound – used in babies to check joint development
- X-ray – more common in older children and adults
- MRI or CT scans – for more detailed assessment in complex cases
An accurate diagnosis is key to planning treatment and preventing long-term joint damage.
Treatment options
The aim of treatment is to improve the fit of the ball and socket, reduce pain and prevent arthritis. Options vary depending on age and severity:
- Babies and young children – soft harnesses or braces to hold the hip in the right position while it develops
- Teenagers and adults – hip preservation surgery (such as periacetabular osteotomy) if detected early, arthroscopy for certain cases or hip replacement for advanced joint damage
- Physiotherapy – to strengthen surrounding muscles and improve mobility
Living with hip dysplasia
With the right treatment, many people with hip dysplasia go on to live active, pain-free lives. Early detection gives the best chance of slowing joint damage and, in some cases, avoiding or delaying the need for a hip replacement later in life. Even in more advanced stages, a combination of surgical and non-surgical options can significantly improve comfort, function and overall quality of life.
If you’ve been living with persistent hip or groin pain – especially if it started in your teens or twenties, or if you have a family history of hip problems – it’s worth seeking expert advice. A full assessment with Mr Shah can help identify the underlying cause of your symptoms and guide you towards the most appropriate treatment plan to protect your long-term hip health.
