What is a common treatment for hip dysplasia?

A Pavlik harness worn continuously is often used as a common treatment for hip dysplasia, particularly in infants diagnosed with this condition. The harness functions by maintaining the hip joint in a stable and properly aligned position while allowing for natural movement. This is crucial for the development of the hip joint, as it enables proper growth and reduces the risk of the joint becoming dislocated.

Using a Pavlik harness is typically the first-line treatment because it is non-invasive and can promote proper hip development without the need for more aggressive surgical interventions. It is most effective when treatment is initiated early in life, ideally within the first few months after diagnosis.

Other treatment options, such as physical therapy alone, joint replacement surgery, or steroid injections, may not address the underlying issues of hip dysplasia. Physical therapy may help improve mobility but does not correct the malformation. Joint replacement surgery is usually reserved for more severe cases or in older children and adults, while steroid injections are typically used for inflammatory conditions rather than structural developmental issues like hip dysplasia.