What causes DDH, the condition Varun Dhawan's daughter was diagnosed with
This condition can affect either one hip or both, though it is most commonly seen in the left hip.
This condition can affect either one hip or both, though it is most commonly seen in the left hip.
This condition can affect either one hip or both, though it is most commonly seen in the left hip.
Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan recently revealed that his two-year-old daughter, Lara, was diagnosed with the condition called Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH). Speaking at an event, he shared that the condition was identified when she was about one-and-a-half years old and emphasised that early diagnosis played a crucial role in ensuring effective treatment.
In Lara’s case, the condition made it difficult for her to walk, leaving her with a slight limp and a small difference in leg length. Varun noted that if left untreated, such cases could increase the risk of complications like disc problems and arthritis later in life. To correct DDH, Lara underwent treatment with a spica cast for about two and a half months, which has now been successfully completed. Varun added that his daughter is recovering well and even expressed the desire to write a book about her experience.
What is DDH?
Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) is a disorder in which the hip joint, specifically the ball-and-socket structure, does not fit together properly in newborns and children. According to the Mayo Clinic, most people with the condition are born with it.
The hip joint is naturally a ball-and-socket type, where the ball-shaped head of the thigh bone (femur) should fit snugly into the socket of the pelvis. In children with DDH, however, this proper alignment is sometimes absent. In certain cases, the femoral head (thigh bone) may even slip partially or completely out of the socket, leading to displacement of the hip joint.
Causes of DDH
This condition can affect either one hip or both, though it is most commonly seen in the left hip. DDH is more frequently observed in girls, first-born children, babies born into families with a history of hip problems and infants delivered in a breech (feet-first) position.
Even when hip dislocation occurs, some children may show no obvious external signs. However, careful observation may reveal subtle signs such as differences in leg length, uneven skin folds around the thighs, limited movement on one side, walking on tiptoes, a waddling gait, or limping. If any of these signs are noticed, a paediatrician should be consulted without delay.
Diagnosis
Usually, a baby’s hips are examined as part of a physical screening within the first 72 hours after birth and again between 6 and 8 weeks of age. The examination involves gently moving the hip joints to check for any abnormalities.
If there is any suspicion of a hip problem, an ultrasound of the baby’s hips should be performed. In addition, babies with certain risk factors, such as a family history of childhood hip problems, being born in a breech position, multiple births in a single delivery, or if one of the babies in a multiple birth was in a breech position, etc., should undergo a hip ultrasound between four and six weeks of age.
If the condition is not diagnosed and treated early, the child may develop movement problems. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the need for surgery. However, in some children, the condition may go unnoticed at birth. In such cases, differences in leg length may only become noticeable when the child begins to walk, and surgery may then be required. Even after treatment, these children will need long-term follow-up with a pediatric orthopaedic specialist to ensure proper hip development.