Therapeutic exercise as a non-invasive treatment in developmental dysplasia and congenital hip subluxation

Abstract

Developmental dysplasia of the hip, formerly known as congenital hip dislocation, is a relatively common condition that includes anatomical alterations of the hip joint, causing subluxation to complete dislocation. This case report analyzes the effectiveness of therapeutic exercise as a noninvasive treatment in a pediatric patient with this diagnosis. To demonstrate the effectiveness of therapeutic exercise in correcting hip subluxation and improving psychomotor development. This clinical case report is based on an interview, clinical evaluation, and imaging, with follow-up through therapeutic exercises for 18 months. The treatment demonstrated a progressive normalization of the acetabular angle (from 36° to 20°), joint congruence in Shenton's arch, and the appearance of the ossification nucleus at 25 months. Furthermore, favorable neurodevelopmental progress was observed thanks to continuous psychomotor stimulation. The results highlight the effectiveness of therapeutic exercise as a conservative method. This noninvasive approach is consistent with previous studies, which emphasize its ability to prevent the need for surgical interventions and correct hip anatomy. Furthermore, the treatment showed significant benefits in neurodevelopment, an aspect frequently affected by prolonged orthosis use. However, further research is needed to standardize specific protocols and guidelines for the conservative management of developmental dysplasia of the hip. Therapeutic exercise would be a safe and effective option for treatment, correcting joint anatomy, promoting neurodevelopment, and avoiding surgical interventions.