Hip Dysplasia is a comprehensive term used to describe several  related hip problems in children. The problem is present at birth in about 1 of very 300 live births. It is more prevalent among girls, breech births and firstborns. Other terms used are Congenital Hip Dislocation, Congenital Dislocatable Hip, Congenital Subluxatable Hip and Acetabular Dysplasia. More recently the term Developmental has often replaced Congenital because it is considered a more accurate description of the problem.

Physicians diligently check for Hip Dysplasia to avoid potential risks. While Hip Dysplasia sometimes resolves on its own, it is impossible to determine which will and which will not. The long term consequences if unresolved are very serious and include: a shorter limp, pronounced limp, premature onset of arthritis and hip pain.

The Pavlik Harness is the most common form of treatment in the U.S. and Europe because of its effectiveness and relative safety. The goal during treatment is to hold the hip in a reduced position to allow the hip to properly develop allowing movement in a controlled manner. A trained physician can position the harness to control hip flexion and abduction. To correctly identify positioning, markings are often placed on the leg and shoulder straps. Important: Because the straps have been positioned by your physician for optimal effectiveness, you should not make any adjustments without first checking with your physician.

This is often asked to monitor the infants weight especially in the case of a premature birth. While individual harnesses may vary slightly the XS size averages 4 ounces and the S size 6 ounces.

The harness is usually applied to the infant's body. Your physician may recommend a light undershirt or long kneed socks. The harness is designed so that nappies can be changed without removing the harness. It also allows for positioning in most car seats.

Sometimes a physician will prescribe 2 harnesses,one for wearing while the other is being washed. The harness should be washed by hand with gentle detergent and allowed to drip dry. Important: DO NOT USE HEAT. Heat can damage the plastic hook and loops used for fastening and may shrink the harness.