Hip dysplasia is a condition where a baby’s hip joint is improperly formed. It is also known as developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). This can lead to instability, where the thigh bone does not sit correctly in the hip socket. As a parent, learning your infant has DDH can be overwhelming and scary. Rest assured that hip dysplasia is a relatively common condition. It is affecting approximately 1 in 1,000 babies significantly and many more to a lesser degree. While some cases of hip dysplasia resolve naturally, others may require medical intervention such as a hip harness or, in severe cases, even hip replacement later in life.
What causes hip dysplasia? A family history of the condition, breech birth positioning, and improper swaddling that forces a baby’s legs into a tightly wrapped, straight position instead of allowing for natural movement can be a few of the causes. If left untreated, hip dysplasia can lead to mobility issues, arthritis, and chronic pain in adulthood. However, early detection and proper care can help keep a baby’s hips healthy and avoid complications.
One major concern for parents of babies with hip dysplasia is ensuring their little one sleeps comfortably while supporting proper hip development. Below, we provide sleep tips to help parents and caregivers support their baby’s hip health while ensuring safe sleep.
Hip Dysplasia Sleeping Positions in Babies
Back Sleeping with Legs in the Correct Position:
The safest sleeping position for all babies, including those with hip dysplasia, is on their back. This allows for unrestricted movement of the baby’s legs, which is essential for hip joint development. To keep a baby’s legs in the correct position, parents should avoid swaddling their baby’s legs too tightly or forcing them into a straight position. Instead, use a hip-healthy sleep sack that allows for natural leg movement.
The Sleep Shore team has some first-hand experience with hip dysplasia, within our own families and with our clients. Here are some of our recommendations on sleep sacks that will allow proper movement:
Halo Sleepsack:The Halo SleepSack is a true classic in the sleepsack realm, but it does accommodate a harness or brace. Pro Tip: Size up!
ErgoPouch Hip Harness Sleep Sack 1.0 TOG (pictured above): This sleep sack is made specifically for infants wearing a hip brace.
Side Sleeping with Support (For Older Infants):
While back sleeping is the safest option, some older babies (6 months and above) who naturally roll to their side may benefit from gentle support to keep their hips aligned.
Safe Inclined Sleeping (For Babies in a Hip Harness):
Babies wearing a hip harness, such as a Pavlik harness, may require an inclined or semi-reclined sleeping position to accommodate their leg positioning. Parents should ensure that the incline is minimal and follow healthcare provider recommendations on the best sleeping arrangement for their baby.
Hip Dysplasia in Babies: Sleep Tips
Use a Hip-Healthy Sleep Sack:
A sleep sack is an excellent alternative to blankets, which can pose a suffocation risk. Choose a sleep sack that allows the baby’s legs to move freely rather than one that is tightly wrapped around the lower body. This helps support proper hip socket development while ensuring safe sleep. We highly recommend the Halo SleepSack and the Ergo Hip Harness Sleep Sack.
Avoid Improper Swaddling:
Swaddling your baby can provide comfort and reduce the startle reflex, but improper swaddling that forces the baby’s legs straight and tightly wrapped can increase the risk of hip dysplasia. Instead, use a swaddle that secures the arms while allowing for natural leg movement.
Create a Safe and Comfortable Sleep Environment:
Ensuring that a baby’s sleep space is free from excess blankets, pillows, or stuffed animals helps reduce the risk of suffocation. A firm mattress with a fitted sheet is best.
Use a Supportive Mattress:
A firm, flat mattress is recommended to provide proper back and hip support. Soft or overly plush surfaces can cause misalignment, making it harder for babies with hip dysplasia to sleep comfortably.
Ensure Baby Wearing Supports Healthy Hips:
Many parents use baby wearing to keep their infants close and comforted. However, it’s important to use carriers that support the baby’s hip development by allowing the baby’s legs to stay in a natural ‘M’ position rather than hanging straight down. The International Hip Dysplasia Institute offers educational information regarding hip dysplasia and baby carriers.
Monitor Baby’s Sleep Position Regularly:
As babies grow, their sleep positions naturally change. It’s important for parents to monitor how their baby sleeps and ensure they are not adopting positions that could negatively impact their hip development.
By following these sleep tips and positioning recommendations, parents can help their babies sleep comfortably while promoting healthy hip development. Always consult with a pediatrician or orthopedic specialist for personalized guidance, especially if your baby requires a hip harness or other medical intervention. If you are just looking for a friend, or someone to connect with, please reach out! Hip Dysplasia is tough to navigate, and we have been there. We are here for you.
Sleep Shore Sleep Consulting
Is your little one having difficulty self-soothing for naps and nights after you implemented a hip harness? If your child is unable to fall asleep, stay asleep, or wake up at a normal time, it may be time to consider sleep training. Sleep Shore offers personalized solutions for each unique sleeping situation to get your little one on track- whether they’re a newborn, infant, or toddler. We also offer in home sleep training services in the Boston, Massachusetts, Central Michigan (Midland, Clare, Mt. Pleasant) and Traverse City, Michigan. Sleep training offers babies and children with the skills to fall asleep on their own so they can wake up feeling more well-rested- and in turn, you’ll feel more energized, too! See what this mama had to say about our sleep services below:
“Molly’s expert guidance and support changed my life! We went from 45 minute stretches to sleeping through the night in a few days. Not only did this have a huge impact on my post-partum recovery, but I helped my daughter learn skills that she’ll use for the rest of her life. Molly is my go-to resource for friends with new babies – she’s the best!” – Mom of 16-week-old