How Hip Dysplasia Affects Infants, Teens, and Adults

Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) occurs when the hip joint does not form properly. The ball of the hip (femoral head) does not fit securely into the socket (acetabulum), which can lead to instability, pain, and early arthritis. While DDH is most commonly diagnosed in infancy, many teens and adults live with undetected or untreated dysplasia until symptoms begin to interfere with daily life.

DDH affects an estimated 1 in every 1,000 infants in the United States, and milder forms are even more common. Early diagnosis leads to the best outcomes, but modern orthopedic care—especially robotic-assisted surgery—offers effective solutions for adolescents and adults as well.

At Robotic Hip and Knee Replacement LA, we specialize in advanced treatments for patients of all ages living with hip dysplasia, from early conservative care to complex reconstructive procedures.

DDH in Infants

In newborns and infants, DDH often develops before birth or during the first months of life. Risk factors include breech position, family history, and being a firstborn child. Pediatricians screen for hip instability at birth and during well-baby visits, but imaging such as ultrasound, may be needed for confirmation.

Signs in infants may include:

• Limited range of motion in one leg
• Uneven thigh folds
• One leg appearing shorter
• Audible clicking during hip movement
• Treatment Options for Infants

When caught early, DDH is often treated successfully without surgery. The most common treatment is the Pavlik harness, which positions the hips properly so the joint can develop normally. Most infants wear the harness full- or part-time for 6–12 weeks, and success rates exceed 90% when treatment begins early.

If the harness is not effective, additional options include:

• Closed reduction (manipulating the hip into place without incision)
• Casting to hold the hip in proper position
• Open reduction surgery in more severe cases

DDH in Children and Teens

When DDH is not fully corrected in infancy, problems can arise in childhood or adolescence. Teens may develop hip instability or pain during sports or growth spurts. Because the hip socket continues to develop through early adolescence, DDH may become more obvious as physical demands increase.

Symptoms in teens may include:

• Hip or groin pain with activity
• Limping or fatigue in the leg
• Clicking or catching in the hip
• Reduced range of motion
• Early cartilage damage visible on imaging

Treatment Options for Teens

Mild cases may improve with:

• Activity modification
• Physical therapy
• Anti-inflammatory medications

However, when structural issues are present, surgery may be necessary to stabilize the hip and protect it from early arthritis.

Common adolescent surgical options include:

• Periacetabular Osteotomy (PAO): Reshapes and repositions the hip socket to provide better coverage.
• Arthroscopy: Repairs labral tears or removes damaged tissue.

These procedures aim to preserve the natural joint and can significantly improve long-term hip function.

DDH in Adults

Some adults reach their 20s, 30s, or beyond without knowing they have hip dysplasia. Over time, the poorly aligned joint causes cartilage wear and labral tears, eventually leading to early osteoarthritis. Adults often seek care once the pain interferes with walking, work, or exercise.

Common symptoms in adults include:

• Chronic hip or groin pain
• Difficulty standing or walking for long periods
• Pain when lying on the affected side
• Stiffness or decreased mobility
• “C-sign” pain deep in the groin

Treatment Options for Adults

Non-surgical care may provide temporary relief, but structural problems often require surgical correction to prevent further joint damage.

Surgical options include:

• Hip preservation surgery (PAO) for younger adults with salvageable cartilage
• Robotic-assisted total hip replacement for patients with advanced arthritis or severe deformity

Robotic technology allows for highly accurate implant positioning, which is particularly valuable for adults with dysplasia, since their anatomy is often irregular. This precision enhances joint stability, reduces dislocation risk, and improves long-term results.

When Surgery Becomes Necessary

Surgery may be recommended when:

• Non-surgical treatments fail
• Hip instability leads to repeated dislocations
• Imaging shows progressive cartilage damage
• Pain disrupts daily activities or sleep
• Early arthritis begins to develop

Prompt evaluation helps preserve joint function and delay or avoid advanced arthritis.

Expert Care for DDH at Every Stage of Life

Whether DDH is diagnosed in infancy or discovered later in adulthood, effective treatment is available. At Robotic Hip and Knee Replacement LA, we provide personalized care designed to protect the hip joint, relieve pain, and restore mobility through the most advanced methods available.

If you or your child is experiencing symptoms of hip dysplasia, contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore the most effective treatment options for long-term hip health.