316 Where There Is No Doctor 2011
PROBLEMS CHILDREN ARE BORN WITH
Dislocated Hip
Some children are born with a dislocated hip—the leg has slipped out of its joint
in the hip bone. Early care can prevent lasting harm and a limp. So babies should be
checked for possible hip dislocation at about 10 days after birth.
1. Compare the 2 legs. If one hip is dislocated,
that side may show:
T he upper leg partly covers this part of the body on the
dislocated side.
There are fewer folds here.
The leg seems shorter or turns out at a strange angle.
2. Hold both legs
with the knees
doubled,
like this,
and open them
wide like this.
If one leg stops early or makes a jump or click when you
open it wide, the hip is dislocated.
Treatment:
Carry the baby with her knees high and wide apart, like this:
Check the baby again in 2 weeks. If you still feel or hear a
jump or click, see a health worker. A harness that holds the
baby’s legs open for 2 weeks can prevent lasting harm.