Through our OsteoKids Academy we are starting to amass a community of paediatric osteopaths from all over the world. A presentation summarising a Russian study on Developmental Hip Dysplasia (DHD) was recently sent through that we found particularly interesting – so we’ve decided to share it here!
What is DHD?
Developmental Hip Dysplasia (DHD) is a condition affecting the hip joint in infants, with potential long-term impacts if not addressed early. This study by Lasovetskaya and Karpova from the Russian Academy of Osteopathic Medicine explored how osteopathic care compares to traditional bracing for managing DHD during the first year of life.
Study Overview
The study involved 195 infants diagnosed with DHD within their first six months of life. The participants were divided into two groups:
- Osteopathy Group (122 infants): Received 6–8 osteopathic treatments, spaced 10–21 days apart.
- Bracing Group (73 infants): Underwent bracing for three months under the supervision of an orthopedic surgeon.
Both groups were monitored through ultrasound at 8 months and clinical evaluations at 10–12 months of age. The aim was to compare outcomes related to hip stability, joint function, and overall musculoskeletal alignment.
Key Findings
The clinical evaluations at 10–12 months revealed notable differences between the two groups:
- Foot Positioning: Only 6.6% of babies treated with osteopathy had foot misalignment, compared to 61.6% of those treated with bracing.
- Spinal Alignment: None of the osteopathy group showed spinal curvature (scoliosis), while 43.8% of the bracing group did.
- Hip Movement: All babies in the osteopathy group had normal hip movement, but 24.7% of the bracing group still had limited hip flexibility.
These findings suggest that osteopathic treatment may provide broader benefits to musculoskeletal health beyond resolving hip joint issues.
Treatment Approach in Osteopathy
The study highlighted that osteopathy looks at the body as one connected system, not just the hips in isolation. Treatments were tailored to the osteopathic type of hip dysplasia the baby had:
- Primary DHD: Focused on strains in the pelvis or lower back that may have developed before birth.
- Secondary DHD: Addressed issues that appeared after birth, such as tensions in the head, spine, or soft tissues.
- Mixed DHD: Combined treatment for both birth-related strains and postnatal imbalances, including areas like the digestive system or spine.
This whole-body approach aims to bring balance back to the baby’s body, supporting healthy growth and development.
Implications for Osteopathic Practice
The results highlight osteopathy’s potential role in managing DHD. While traditional bracing directly targets the hip joint, osteopathic care appears to address a broader range of factors, potentially contributing to improved outcomes in alignment and mobility. These findings align with the osteopathic philosophy of treating the whole body rather than isolated symptoms.
Supporting Infant Health at North Canberra Osteopathy
At North Canberra Osteopathy, we think osteopathy is a valuable adjunct to bracing for DHD and incorporate similar principles to this study when treating infants. By carefully observing their cues and addressing imbalances, we aim to support healthy growth and development. If you’re concerned about your baby’s hips or want to learn more about how osteopathy can help, we’re here to assist.
Study discussed:
Lasovetskaya, L. and Karpova, T. (2009) ‘Osteopathische Behandlung Entwicklungsbedingter Hüftdysplasie bei Säuglingen Während des ersten lebensjahres’, Osteopathische Medizin, 10(4), pp. 4–9. doi:10.1016/j.ostmed.2009.07.001.