Developmental dysplasia of the hip

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a condition in which the "ball and socket" joint of the hip does not develop properly in infants and young children. It is also known as congenital dislocation of the hip or hip dysplasia. The hip joint connects the thigh bone (femur) to the pelvis. The top part of the femur, known as the femoral head, is rounded like a ball and fits into the cup-shaped socket of the hip. In cases of DDH, the hip socket is too shallow, causing the femoral head to be inadequately secured, resulting in a loose hip joint. In more severe instances, the femur may dislocate from the socket.