Question
A 20-month-old girl appears to have a shorter right leg while walking and exhibits an in-toe gait, mainly relying on her left leg for support when standing. Hospital examinations have shown everything to be normal, but the parents are still worried and are asking how they can confirm if she has congenital hip dislocation.
Answer
Congenital hip dislocation is more common in northern China than in southern China, with a higher incidence in girls than in boys, and more often on the left side. Early treatment yields better results; infants treated within the first two months have the simplest and most effective treatment, followed by children from 3 months to 1 year old, who can achieve ideal effects through reduction and immobilization. Children aged 1 to 3 years may require advanced traction before reduction, with slightly poorer results than the earlier method. It becomes more difficult to treat children aged 3 to 8 years, possibly requiring surgery, with even poorer outcomes for those over 8 years old, which may lead to lifelong disability. To diagnose congenital hip dislocation, the “Frog Test” can be performed, involving bending the baby’s knees and hips while spreading the hip joints outward. If the spread is smooth, it is normal; otherwise, further examination is needed. Observe if the gluteal and femoral creases are symmetrical; if not, further examination by an orthopedic doctor is required. Pay attention to any clicks or abnormal movements of the hip joint during defecation or urination; if present, seek medical attention at a hospital from an orthopedic doctor.