What Is Acetabular Dysplasia in an Individual?

Acetabular dysplasia is one of several conditions commonly referred to under the umbrella terms hip dysplasia or dislocated hip. Specifically, it is the condition in which a person is born with a hip socket that is too shallow to function properly.

Occurrence

• Acetabular dysplasia is diagnosed in approximately 0.1percent of the population and is significantly more prevalent in females.

Symptoms

• Often the first symptom of Acetabular dysplasia is an audible clicking in the joint during movement; this “clunk”-ing is noticeable as well in the way the joint feels during movement. Pain during activity is another symptom, often causing a noticeable limp. Acetabular dysplasia may also result in a slight difference in the length of one of the legs.

Non-Surgical Treatment

• Depending on the severity of the condition, Acetabular dysplasia may be treated with physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles, an activity regimen to restrict the patient's physical activities, a weight management program and prescription-strength pain medication.

Surgical Treatment

• In most cases, doctors will recommend surgery to correct the joint’s abnormality. There are several surgical procedures used to correct this condition dependening on its severity and the parts of the joint socket that are deformed.

Long-term Effects

• In the adult population, Acetabular dysplasia is the leading cause of osteoarthritis in the hip. Early diagnosis and treatment is recommended to prevent the congenital hip dysplasia from leading to secondary conditions.