Condition
Hip dysplasia in teenagers and adults
In hip dysplasia, the hip socket is shaped or positioned so that it does not adequately cover the ball of the joint. Symptoms may first appear in adolescence or adulthood. What matters is how the finding relates to your symptoms and the joint’s ability to cope with activity.
What does the finding mean?
Reduced coverage changes how load is distributed through the joint. The cartilage and the labrum, a rim of tissue around the socket, may be placed under greater strain. This can cause pain and contribute to earlier osteoarthritis, although the course varies.
Groin or hip pain during activity is common. Some people also develop a limp, catching or a sense of instability. These symptoms alone do not establish a diagnosis of dysplasia.
How is the hip assessed?
We ask when symptoms began, how they have changed, about earlier hip treatment and which movements trigger discomfort. Examination includes walking, movement and muscle strength. Existing images and reports help avoid unnecessary repeat investigations.
X-rays show bone shape and socket coverage. MRI may help answer additional questions about cartilage or the labrum. A single angle measurement does not determine treatment on its own.
Children can also see us for an initial orthopaedic assessment. If a specialist paediatric orthopaedic opinion is needed, we discuss the appropriate next step.
What treatment may help?
For milder symptoms, adjusting activity, targeted strengthening and, where appropriate, short-term pain relief may help. Exercises can improve muscular control of the joint, but do not change the bony shape of the socket.
Persistent symptoms or substantial undercoverage may warrant specialist assessment. Suitability for joint-preserving surgery depends on symptoms, joint shape and existing cartilage damage, among other factors. We discuss the appropriate next step; this does not promise an operation or a particular outcome.
We do not perform joint-preserving surgery ourselves. Where needed, we discuss assessment at a regional hospital specialising in this treatment.
When is urgent help needed?
Severe pain after a fall or being unable to bear weight requires immediate medical attention. Sudden severe hip pain with fever or feeling very unwell also needs urgent assessment. For urgent symptoms that are not an emergency, contact your GP practice promptly. In an emergency, call 112.
