Hip Dysplasia Differences in Adults vs. Children

Hip dysplasia is a condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to pain and potential damage to the joint over time. While this condition affects both adults and children, it presents differently depending on age. 

Dr. Alexander S. McLawhorn, a joint reconstruction specialist serving New York, New York, and Stamford, Connecticut, provides advanced care for hip conditions. 

How Does Hip Dysplasia Differ in Adults vs. Children?

The condition of hip dysplasia is fundamentally the same for both children and adults – it involves a misalignment or shallow formation of the hip joint. However, the main difference lies in how it presents and is addressed at different stages of life due to skeletal development, symptoms, and treatment options.

Hip Dysplasia in Children

In children, hip dysplasia is often identified during routine developmental screenings or imaging tests, especially in infants. Symptoms may include a clicking or popping sound in the hip, limited range of motion, or uneven leg lengths. 

Early detection allows for non-invasive treatments like braces or harnesses to guide proper joint development. In some cases, surgery is needed to correct severe misalignments.

Hip Dysplasia in Adults

Adults who discover they have hip dysplasia have always had it, but it may have gone undiagnosed until pain or arthritis developed later in life. Symptoms often include hip or groin pain, stiffness, and difficulty with everyday movements like walking or bending. 

Because an adult’s joint is already fully developed, treatment typically involves surgical options such as hip resurfacing or total hip replacement to restore function. These are more complex procedures, but they can greatly improve hip mobility.

The Importance of Expert Care

Hip dysplasia, especially when diagnosed in adulthood, requires specialized care due to its complexity and potential for joint damage. Dr. Alexander S. McLawhorn has experience treating patients with hip dysplasia and can offer both non-surgical and surgical options. For advanced cases, he uses minimally invasive and robot-assisted techniques, particularly in total hip replacement procedures.

Dr. McLawhorn conducts thorough evaluations in order to come up with the best treatment strategy for each patient. His practice provides local and regional patients with access to advanced care to restore mobility.

If you or a loved one is living with hip dysplasia, schedule a consultation with Dr. McLawhorn’s team. Call NY: 212-606-1065 or CT: 203-705-2113 today.