Hip Dysplasia Treatment
The earlier doctors diagnose hip dysplasia, the more treatment options you'll have.
The doctors at the Hip Preservation Program at UPMC Orthopaedic Care are experts in treating diseases of the hip. Their goal is always to preserve and restore hip function, so you can lead an active and normal life.
Without treatment, your hip will become more and more painful, and may eventually wear out leading to arthritis.
Types of treatment for hip dysplasia
Your doctor may suggest one or more of the following options:
Lifestyle changes
If your hip dysplasia hasn't caused much damage to the bone or cartilage, lifestyle changes, and activity adjustments may help.
- Losing weight will relieve pressure on the hip joint.
- Switching from a high-impact sport like running to a low-impact one like swimming or biking may also reduce wear and tear.
Your doctor may prescribe physical therapy to increase joint function and range of motion.
Medicine to treat hip dysplasia
Doctors might give you an injection or prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve pain and help delay or avoid surgery. Physical therapy, focused on strengthening, is essential.
Hip surgery
Sometimes surgery is the best treatment for hip dysplasia.
The type will depend on your age, level of activity, and if hip damage has occurred.
Periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) surgery
If possible, your doctor will try to preserve your natural hip, especially if you're younger than 40. PAO surgery can delay the need for a total hip replacement for typically 10 or 20 years.
In PAO surgery, the doctor:
- Makes four cuts in the pelvic bone.
- Rotates the hip socket to a more normal position.
- Uses screws to hold the bones in place.
The surgery takes two to three hours and you'll stay in the hospital for a few days afterward.
Hip replacement
If the joint surface and cartilage is very thin or worn, your doctor may suggest a total hip replacement. Surgery takes one to two hours and you may go home the same day.
Doctors urge you to stay active while you heal from hip replacement surgery. Walking a little more each day will help increase your range of motion.
You should be able to resume most normal activities within three to six weeks after surgery.
Physical therapy can help as you transition back to your normal routine.