Treatment of Hip Dysplasia
What is Hip Dysplasia?
Before discussing treatment options, it is important to understand what hip dysplasia is and the symptoms it causes. Hip dysplasia is a condition present from birth in which the hip socket (acetabulum) does not fully cover the ball of the thigh bone (femoral head). This lack of coverage causes the joint to be unstable and places too much pressure on a smaller area of the hip, leading to increased wear and tear.
Over time, this imbalance can result in damage to the labrum (the ring of cartilage that cushions the joint), feelings of instability, and early-onset arthritis. If left untreated, hip dysplasia can significantly increase the likelihood of needing a hip replacement at a younger age.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Hip Dysplasia
Treatment for hip dysplasia depends on the severity of the condition, the patient's symptoms, and their individual needs and goals. Your orthopedic surgeon may suggest non-surgical treatments to help your hip dysplasia symptoms. These may include activity modification to reduce strain on the hip, rest to ease discomfort, and physical therapy to improve mobility and strengthen the muscles that support the joint. Anti-inflammatory medications may also be used to reduce pain and swelling.
Surgical Treatment Options for Hip Dysplasia
In mild cases of hip dysplasia, treatment may involve hip arthroscopy—a minimally invasive procedure where a surgeon uses a small camera and specialized instruments to inspect the joint, repair damaged tissues, and tighten the joint capsule to enhance stability. For more severe dysplasia, a surgery called a periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) may be recommended. This procedure involves repositioning the bones around the hip socket to improve coverage of the femoral head, allowing for better joint alignment and function.
Seek Relief from Hip Dysplasia at the American Hip Institute
The American Hip Institute specializes in both non-operative and surgical treatments for hip dysplasia, offering personalized care tailored to each patient's needs. From activity modification and physical therapy to advanced surgical procedures, our team is committed to preserving the natural hip joint whenever possible. Dr. Benjamin Kuhns is one of the few orthopedic surgeons in the country with specialized expertise in treating hip dysplasia through both minimally invasive hip arthroscopy and PAO, making AHI a national leader in comprehensive hip dysplasia care.
What is the American Hip Institute?
The American Hip Institute is the #1 clinic in the United States for advanced hip treatment, offering the best outcomes and patient experience in the world.
American Hip Institute by The Numbers
- 1stIn the nation to perform outpatient robotic hip surgery
- 10000+Hip surgeries performed by AHI surgeons
- 550+Research articles published by the team, driving innovation in hip treatment
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Thank you for your diagnosis last year for hip dysplasia.
It was a rough year, but after my PAO with your team I was able to successfully heal and prepare for my wedding! It was quite a year, thank you!
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Collegiate Lacrosse Player Has Successful Labral Repair and PAO at The American Hip Institute
I just started playing again this past year and then this year, my senior year, I'll finally get to play a full fall ball season. I'll actually be able to compete competitively again, which I am really excited about.
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Amber D.: 5 Doctors, 3 Years, 1 Life-Changing Diagnosis
After my first appointment with the team at American Hip Institute, they had a guess about what could be causing my hip pain. They sent me to get an MRI and, within a week, identified the correct diagnosis, and my surgery was booked.
Meet Our Team!
The American Hip Institute is the first medical center in the nation dedicated exclusively to the treatment of hip conditions, with specialized expertise in hip dysplasia. Our surgeons are among the few in the country trained to perform both minimally invasive hip arthroscopy and advanced procedures like periacetabular osteotomy to correct structural abnormalities. With over 10,000 hip surgeries performed and a commitment to research-driven care, AHI leads the field in innovation and excellence in the treatment of hip dysplasia.
