As parents, prioritising your children's health is at the forefront of your mind. You meticulously track their milestones, but there's one crucial aspect that can easily slip through the cracks: the health of their hips. Early detection of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is essential for your baby's mobility and long-term well-being. That's why infant hip screening by a paediatric chiropractor is crucial.
Infant hip screenings are routine assessments that can lead to early diagnosis of any potential issues. These checks not only secure your child's immediate health but play an integral role in laying the groundwork for a future filled with active play and movement.
What is Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip?
Developmental dysplasia of the hip is a condition where the hip joint fails to develop properly, resulting in the ball not fitting snugly into the socket. Research shows that in Australia, there is a reported incidence of DDH in about 7 out of every 1,000 births, making it relatively common yet critical to address. If left untreated, DDH can lead to severe complications such as osteoarthritis and restricted mobility later in life.
Understanding the significance of early diagnosis is paramount. When treatment starts during the early months of a baby's life, the chances of a full recovery significantly improve.
Importance of Having a Paediatric Chiropractor Performing Infant Hip Screening
Paediatric trained chiropractors are trained to spot early signs of hip abnormality during regular check-ups. They assess the range of motion in your baby's hips, check for any asymmetries, and ensure the joints are functioning properly. All non-ambulatory infants attending a chiropractor must undergo regular and routine hip assessment, even if recent assessment by another health practitioner has occurred. Frequency of assessment is modified according to the presence of risk factors.
Using gentle, non-invasive hip testing, paediatric trained chiropractors can evaluate an infant's hips without causing discomfort. Scheduling hip screenings as part of your child’s routine wellness visits should be as normal as getting vaccinations, aiding in the proactive management of their health.
If your chiropractor is not checking your baby's hips regularly then they may be missing something crucial!
Signs to Watch For
Though many parents may not observe obvious symptoms of hip issues, being aware of say signs can be helpful. Here are a few indicators to keep an eye on:
One leg appearing shorter than the other, which may lead to an uneven walk later in life.
Limited range of motion in your baby's legs. For example, if you find it difficult to spread their legs apart comfortably.
Uneven skin folds on the thighs, which can indicate hip problems (although this is commonly a normal finding in infants)
If any of these symptoms arise or you simply have concerns about your baby's hip health, don’t hesitate to reach out to a paediatric chiropractor. Early intervention often results in better outcomes and fewer complications down the line.
When Should You Schedule an Appointment?
After the initial neonatal screen it is recommended to assess hips at 4 and 8 weeks of age, as well as 4, 6, 8, and 10 months of age (if no risk factors). Additional screening at 6 weeks and 12 months of age is appropriate particularly in the presence of risk factors suggestive of DDH (if you are unsure of the risk factors, My Family Chiro can help you with that!). Consultation at these ages primarily for hip assessment is appropriate.. However, parents should know it's never too late to address concerns. If you notice any changes in your baby’s movement or hip alignment at any age, it's essential to seek help.
Should a chiropractor identify any irregularities during the screening, they may recommend additional evaluations or imaging tests to get a clearer picture. By being proactive now, you can help prevent more serious issues and complicated treatments in the future.
Prioritise Your Baby's Health
Finding a qualified paediatric chiropractor for infant hip screenings can profoundly affect your child's growth and mobility. Early detection of developmental dysplasia of the hip enables timely intervention, which is crucial for your child as they learn to walk and run freely.
Make regular hip screenings a priority in your parenting journey. Investing a bit of your time on these vital checks can promote a lifetime of healthy movement for your child. Remember, a proactive approach to your baby’s health is essential for their well-being.
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