Managing Hip Dysplasia: Tips for Pain Relief and Exercise

Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH)

I am a twin, and during middle school, while running, I suddenly felt a sharp pain in my right foot halfway through.
Since then, I have visited several hospitals (E-Da Hospital, Bo-Cheng Hospital) for X-ray examinations, and the doctors diagnosed me with congenital hip joint dysplasia in my right foot.
They mentioned that I need to take care of it, or else I would need a hip replacement when I get older.
I am now in my senior year of high school, and I often experience pain in my right foot if it is off the ground for too long.
However, my running speed has not been affected.
After running or playing basketball (which I don't do often, just two physical education classes a week and during sports events), I feel pain around the hip joint that lasts about 1 to 2 weeks.
I played badminton three days ago, and it still hurts.
When I sit down, if my right foot touches the ground first, it hurts.
Lifting my leg sideways produces a cracking sound, but squatting, standing, or brisk walking does not cause discomfort.
However, sitting down, especially after sitting for a while, causes pain, and I feel like there are some bony protrusions.
I would like to know what I can do to improve this situation, what types of exercises I should avoid, what activities I can do, and how to prevent further deterioration.
I am also very afraid of surgery.
I apologize for sharing so many details, and I hope you can give me some advice.
Thank you.

Pei, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/03/11

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

Try to minimize intense exercise and consult a physician to determine if corrective surgery is necessary to prevent the future development of osteoarthritis.

Reply Date: 2017/03/11

More Info

Managing hip dysplasia, especially in a young athlete like yourself, requires a careful approach to both pain relief and exercise. Hip dysplasia is a condition where the hip joint is not formed properly, which can lead to instability, pain, and eventually arthritis if not managed properly. Here are some strategies to help you manage your symptoms and maintain an active lifestyle.

Understanding Your Condition
First, it's essential to understand that hip dysplasia can lead to various symptoms, including pain during certain activities, clicking or popping sounds in the hip joint, and discomfort when sitting or standing for extended periods. The fact that you experience pain after activities like running or playing sports suggests that your hip joint may be under stress, especially if it is not properly aligned or supported.

Pain Relief Strategies
1. Rest and Ice: After activities that exacerbate your pain, make sure to rest your hip and apply ice to reduce inflammation. Ice can be particularly effective if applied for 15-20 minutes at a time.

2. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help manage pain and inflammation. However, consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication.

3. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can be beneficial. A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program that focuses on strengthening the muscles around your hip, improving flexibility, and enhancing your overall biomechanics.

4. Activity Modification: While it's important to stay active, you may need to modify your activities. Avoid high-impact sports or exercises that put excessive strain on your hip joint. Instead, consider low-impact activities such as swimming or cycling, which can provide cardiovascular benefits without stressing your hip.

Exercise Recommendations
1. Strengthening Exercises: Focus on strengthening the muscles around your hip, including the glutes, quadriceps, and hamstrings. Exercises like bridges, clamshells, and leg lifts can help stabilize the hip joint.

2. Flexibility and Stretching: Incorporate stretching exercises to improve flexibility in your hip and surrounding muscles. Gentle stretches for the hip flexors, hamstrings, and quadriceps can help alleviate tightness.

3. Balance and Stability Training: Exercises that improve balance and stability can help reduce the risk of falls and further injury. Consider incorporating balance exercises such as single-leg stands or using a balance board.

4. Warm-Up and Cool Down: Always ensure you warm up before engaging in any physical activity and cool down afterward. This can help prepare your muscles and joints for exercise and reduce the risk of injury.

Preventing Further Deterioration
1. Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce stress on your hip joints. If you are overweight, even a small amount of weight loss can significantly alleviate pressure on your hips.

2. Regular Check-Ups: Keep in touch with your healthcare provider to monitor your condition. Regular check-ups can help catch any changes early and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

3. Avoid Prolonged Sitting: Since you mentioned pain when sitting, try to change positions frequently and take breaks to stand or walk around. Consider using a cushion or support when sitting to relieve pressure on your hip.

4. Educate Yourself: Understanding your condition can empower you to make informed decisions about your activities and treatment options. Research and discuss with your healthcare provider about the best practices for managing hip dysplasia.

Surgical Considerations
While surgery is often a last resort, it may be necessary if conservative treatments fail to provide relief or if your condition worsens. Discuss your concerns about surgery with your doctor, who can provide insights based on your specific situation and the severity of your hip dysplasia.

Conclusion
Managing hip dysplasia requires a proactive approach to pain relief, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments. By focusing on strengthening, flexibility, and proper activity modification, you can continue to enjoy sports and physical activities while minimizing pain and preventing further deterioration. Always consult with healthcare professionals to tailor a plan that suits your individual needs and circumstances.

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