WHY IS DDH MORE COMMON IN FEMALES?

Congenital hip dislocation (DDH) is a condition in which the hip joint is not properly formed at birth. In DDH, the thighbone (femur) is not properly positioned in the hip socket (acetabulum). This can lead to a variety of problems, including pain, instability, and arthritis.

DDH is more common in females than in males. Studies have shown that it affects approximately 1 in 1,000 female newborns, compared to 1 in 3,000 male newborns.

So, why is DDH more common in females? Let's take a closer look and unveil the contributing factors:

1. Hormonal Factors:

Estrogen and Progesterone:

• Estrogen and progesterone are two hormones that are produced in higher levels in females than in males.
• These hormones can relax the ligaments that support the hip joint. This can make the hip joint more lax and unstable, increasing the risk of DDH.

2. Pelvic Structure:

Wider Pelvis:

• Females typically have a wider pelvis than males. This can alter the angle at which the thighbone fits into the hip socket, increasing the likelihood of DDH.

3. Biomechanical Factors:

Hip Abduction:

• Females tend to have a wider range of hip abduction (outward movement of the leg) than males.
• This increased range of motion can put more stress on the hip joint, making it more susceptible to dislocation.

4. Genetic Factors:

X-Linked Genes:

• There are certain genes located on the X chromosome that are involved in the development of the hip joint.
• Females have two X chromosomes, while males have only one. This means that females are more likely to inherit these genes and develop DDH.

5. Environmental Factors:

Breech Presentation:

• Breech presentation, a condition in which the baby is positioned with its feet or buttocks first during birth, is a risk factor for DDH.
• This is because the breech position can put pressure on the hip joint and increase the risk of dislocation.

Conclusion:

DDH is a complex condition with multiple contributing factors. The hormonal, pelvic, biomechanical, genetic, and environmental factors discussed above all play a role in the increased prevalence of DDH in females. Early detection and treatment of DDH are essential to prevent long-term problems.

FAQs:

1. What are the signs and symptoms of DDH?

   • Uneven skin folds on the thighs
   • One leg may appear shorter than the other
   • Difficulty moving the hip
   • Pain in the hip or groin
   • Limping

2. How is DDH diagnosed?

   • Physical examination
   • X-rays
   • Ultrasound

3. How is DDH treated?

   • Treatment depends on the age of the child and the severity of the DDH.
   • Treatment may include bracing, surgery, or physical therapy.

4. What are the long-term effects of DDH?

   • If DDH is not treated early, it can lead to pain, instability, and arthritis in the hip joint.

5. How can DDH be prevented?

   • There is no sure way to prevent DDH, but there are some things that can be done to reduce the risk, such as avoiding breech presentation during birth.