Hip dysplasia is a congenital condition where the hip socket doesn't fully cover the ball portion of the upper thigh bone. More severe cases of hip dysplasia are detected during infancy, and they are treated at that time. Sometimes the condition goes undetected or is more subtle. Over decades, hip dysplasia can result in hip osteoarthritis, or breakdown in the cartilage in the hip joint when the patient becomes an adult. When this happens, hip replacement might be necessary to reconstruct the joint.
Dr. Alexander McLawhorn is an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in hip replacement procedures. With his expertise, Dr. McLawhorn is dedicated to offering adult patients with hip dysplasia a route back to comfort and mobility, customizing treatments to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Symptoms of Hip Dysplasia
Symptoms can vary widely among individuals but often include:
- Persistent or intermittent pain in your hip, groin, or thigh
- A sensation of instability or 'giving way' in your hip joint
- Limited range of motion, difficulty walking, or a limp
- A clicking or popping sound while moving
- Limb length discrepancy
Causes of Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia can stem from a variety of factors, including:
- Genetic predisposition: A family history of hip dysplasia increases your risk for this condition. Hip dysplasia is also more common in females.
- Developmental conditions: Abnormalities in hip development during infancy or childhood.
- Stress or pressure: Circumstances that put undue stress on the hip joints, such as lack of space in the womb and tight, straight-leg swaddling can be risk factors for hip dysplasia.
Hip dysplasia begins early in life for most people affected by this condition, although symptoms may not appear until adulthood.
Treatments for Hip Dysplasia
In adults with degenerative hip disease from hip dysplasia, Dr. McLawhorn considers both non-surgical and surgical treatment options, depending on the severity of disease and symptoms from the disease.
- Non-surgical therapies: Physical therapy, weight management, and pain relief medications are often the first line of defense.
- Surgical solutions: In more severe cases, total hip replacement may be recommended to restore function and alleviate pain.
Why You Should Choose Dr. McLawhorn for Treating Hip Dysplasia
Dr. McLawhorn has extensive experience caring for patients with hip dysplasia and addressing the surgical complexities that arise in their treatment. He utilizes the latest surgical techniques and technology, which allow him to carefully plan the surgery in advance and then execute the plan with accuracy and precision.
Schedule a Consultation
Ignoring hip dysplasia can lead to chronic discomfort and limited mobility. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of hip dysplasia, call 212-606-1065 (NY) or 203-705-2113 (CT) to schedule a consultation with Dr. McLawhorn.
