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.
Total Hip Replacement for Hip Dysplasia
Total hip replacement replaces the damaged joint with an artificial one, helping to relieve pain and improve mobility.
Hip dysplasia can make the surgery a bit more challenging due to the unique shape of the hip socket, but there are modern techniques and implants designed to handle these differences. The procedure removes the damaged parts of the hip and replaces them with durable, long-lasting components.
Recovery usually includes physical therapy to get you back on your feet, and most people feel significant relief within a few weeks. Dr. Alexander McLawhorn has experience with hip replacements for patients with hip dysplasia, and he'll make sure the treatment fits your specific needs.
Differences in Hip Dysplasia Between Men and Women
Hip dysplasia affects men and women differently in several ways:
- Prevalence: Women are more likely to have hip dysplasia than men, partly due to hormonal and anatomical differences.
- Symptoms: Women often experience symptoms earlier, especially during activities like pregnancy that put extra stress on the hip joints. Men may develop symptoms later in life, often as a result of wear and tear on the joint.
- Impact: Women might notice more joint instability, while men are more likely to experience stiffness or pain from gradual cartilage damage.
These differences can affect how and when the condition is diagnosed and treated.
Hip Dysplasia in Children
Everyone who has hip dysplasia develops it as a child, but some are not diagnosed until they are adults. For some, it presents more obviously when they are infants or children. Common signs include uneven leg lengths, a clicking sound in the hip, or limping as the child begins to walk.
The condition can be caused by factors like family history, breech birth, or tight swaddling practices. Early diagnosis through physical exams or imaging is crucial.
Treatment depends on the child’s age and the severity of the condition. It may involve using a harness for infants, casting for toddlers, or surgery for more severe cases. Most children recover fully with timely care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Exercise Help With Hip Dysplasia? If So, What Kind?
Yes, certain exercises can help manage hip dysplasia by strengthening muscles around the hip joint and improving stability. Low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, and gentle yoga are often recommended. Physical therapy can also be beneficial for developing an exercise plan that won't put too much strain on your hip. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting an exercise routine.
Can Hip Dysplasia Recur After Treatment?
While successful treatment can resolve hip dysplasia, recurrence is possible, especially if the condition wasn’t fully corrected or if additional joint stress occurs later in life. Regular follow-ups with your doctor and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of recurrence.
Can I Prevent Hip Dysplasia?
While you cannot entirely prevent hip dysplasia, some risk factors can be managed. For infants, it's important to use proper swaddling techniques that allow free hip movement. For yourself, you'll want to maintain a healthy weight and stay active to help protect your joint health as you age. If you have a family history of hip dysplasia, you should discuss potential risks with your doctor, which may help with early detection and management.
Does Dr. McLawhorn Accept My Insurance?
Dr. McLawhorn accepts several major insurance plans, including Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and others. If your insurance is not listed, you may still have coverage through out-of-network benefits. International patients or those without out-of-network benefits can discuss fees directly with the office.
For Medicare patients, Dr. McLawhorn has opted out of the Medicare program, meaning his professional fees cannot be submitted to Medicare for reimbursement. However, other hospital and ancillary services may still be covered. Contact the office for specific details about your coverage.
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.
