Hip dysplasia

[Shirkingfromhome]

Ds2 has just been diagnosed with hip dysplasia has to wear a pavlik harness for the next 4 - 6 wks. I was expecting to be given some exercises when physio was mentioned and not a harness so it's caught me out!

He has to wear it 23hrs a day and seems relatively ok with it at the moment although I think he's frustrated that he can't kick about.

Just wondering what anyone else's experience was like and if there's anything I need to be aware of? DH and I are pretty laid back so I just want to make sure I'm not missing anything. Thank you.

[GreenFirefly]

My DD had to wear her harness 24 hours for the 6 weeks, then was weaned off it 3 hours less per day for the next few weeks. She get it at about 4 weeks old. Had check ups at 6, 12 and 18 months but is now discharged and climbing walking running like any other 2.5 year old. There shouldn't be any further issues.

How old is your DC?

[Tinofsardines]

Dd had it for 6weeks for 23.5hrs a day.

Took some getting used to but we found leg warmers and a long-sleeved vest helped prevent the straps from rubbing.

I almost forget she ever had it now. Dd is 3.5 and absolutely no issues. She was walking at 9m and you'd never know there had been a problem. We go for yearly xrays up until she's 5.

[sheepcantdance]

My DD wore hers from 6 weeks to 10.5 months. You'd never know now - she's 9. And don't panic! I've never met anyone who knows anyone who's worn one that long, I think we were an anomaly. Top tip - ask if you can have a spare in case of the inevitable poo explosion.

[Shirkingfromhome]

Thanks for replies. DS is 6 wks old so they've spotted it quickly (DM had it so we had to go for the scan). He has to wear his for 23 hours for 4 weeks initially, then they are re-scanning and taking it from there.

He's in long-sleeved vests but we're on holiday next week so I'll pack some extra (it's abroad so it'll be hot, I'd only thought to pack romper suits for day). Ours is washable and the physio said if we have to wash it (and he's out of it for an hour or so), it's fine.

Pleased you've all had positive experiences, and thanks for confirming there shouldn't be anything to worry about.

[GreenFirefly]

We found using sleepsuits the next size up fastened a bit more than the proper size, though there was still a bit of a gap at the crotch where the poppers were too far apart. My lovely friend sewed some poppers on triangles of fabric to fill the gap 😀 otherwise clothes were just vests and long socks with a blanket over the rest if necessary.
I do recall that the harness created an ideal shape for holding baby on your hip!