19 May Does your child  with Cerebral Palsy have an Annual Hip Check X-ray

Does your child  with Cerebral Palsy have an Annual Hip Check X-ray
Did you know that children with Cerebral Palsy are at a higher risk of hip dislocation than typically developing children

Children with cerebral palsy have an increased risk of developing hip displacement, which may lead to dislocation of the femoral head out of the hip socket. This process usually occurs gradually and may go undetected without regular hip surveillance. Over time hip dislocation can lead to pain as well as difficulties with seating and posture. Children who have limited mobility (minimal or no ability to walk) are most at risk of hip displacement.

Up to 75 per cent of children with cerebral palsy who can’t walk may have some progressive hip displacement. This is thought to be predominantly related to the child’s mobility but may also be influenced by spasticity and contracture around the hip. Children who are more mobile have less risk of hip problems, however they will also require hip assessment.

The hip surveillance program aims to identify hip problems in cerebral palsy patients at an early stage so that intervention can occur if required. Hip surveillance involves X-rays of the hip joint and physical assessment. Ongoing hip surveillance results in early detection of hip displacement. If identified and treated early, pain, dislocation, loss of function and deformity due to hip displacement may be prevented. Treatment options are greater with early intervention and management.

Here at My Favourite Physio, our Expert Paediatric Physiotherapists are able to order for hip surveillance X-rays for your child with Cerebral Palsy, interpret the results of the hip X-rays and assess your child’s hip joint range of movement and assist you with referrals into the appropriate clinics at the Children’s hospitals for ongoing monitoring or intervention if your child requires.

If you are concerned about your child with Cerebral Palsy, ring My Favourite Physio on (02) 9790 4233 or DM us @myfavouritephysio to speak to one of our Expert Paediatric Physiotherapists today! Let us help your child have a lifetime of good hip health!