Put The Kettle On – for Baby Hip Health Week

In the UK alone, up to 2000 children a year are diagnosed with Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH), which describes a range of conditions from mild instability to total dislocation of the hip.

Early detection means DDH can often be corrected by a simple outpatient treatment, but a later, or missed, diagnosis can leave a child requiring hospital stays, operations and, potentially, a permanent disability.

Even if the hips appear to be normal it is important to be aware of signs that might mean there is a problem. The signs parents should look out for include:

• one leg appearing shorter than the other,
• an extra deep crease on the inside of the thigh,
• crawling with one leg dragging or walking with a limp or a waddle.

Whilst these signs are not conclusive, they may indicate the need for further investigation and medical advice should be sought if you are concerned.
 
Sue Banton MBE, founder of STEPS, said, "In 2009 STEPS Baby Hip Screening Report revealed that the current screening policy, despite being in place for 40 years, is simply not working throughout the majority of the country. Due to late or missed diagnosis, valuable time is being lost, and we are increasingly supporting the victims of a failing system."
 
To help change this and put STEPS and DDH on the public agenda, the charity is asking people to hold a "Put the Kettle On" event during Baby Hip Health Week. Julie Charlton, STEPS Marketing & Community Fundraiser, commented, "Whether you host a "Put the Kettle On" event for two or 200 people, we are very grateful for your donations. Without this support, our work, including campaigning, a helpline, information centre and website could not happen, and many parents would be alone during a very difficult time. Ultimately we want all babies to be checked as early as possible and not have to endure unnecessary pain and suffering."
 
Please send all donations to www.justgiving.com/steps

For more information and advice please visit www.steps-charity.org.uk  or call the helpline on 01925 750271