When it comes to treating hip dysplasia, we focus on comfort, safe positioning, and making things manageable for real life — while working toward stable, healthy hip development over time.
Hip dysplasia (DDH) is diagnosed when a baby’s hip joint hasn’t formed properly, and the ball part of the hip joint doesn’t sit securely in the socket. It may be shallow, loose, or dislocated. Our hip braces gently hold the hips in a stable position, helping the ball stay well positioned in the socket. This supports healthy hip development and reduces the risk of longer-term problems.
Hip dysplasia varies, from mild looseness to a hip that dislocates.
In everyday life, many babies appear comfortable and move normally. Parents may notice one leg looking slightly shorter, uneven skin folds, or a hip that feels or sounds “clicky,” although these signs are not always present. If you’re concerned about any of these changes, it’s best to speak with your Maternal and Child Health Nurse, GP, or paediatrician.
In most cases, yes. When hip dysplasia is identified early, bracing is a well-established and effective treatment. Many babies respond very well to appropriate positioning and consistent wear.
There are several bracing options, depending on your baby’s age, size, and specific diagnosis. Our orthotists will assess carefully and work with your specialist to determine the most suitable option.
Yes. Your child will usually be assessed by an orthopaedic surgeon or paediatrician, who will provide a referral for bracing if appropriate. Please bring this referral with you to your appointment, as we require it before fitting a brace.
If you’re unsure whether you have the correct referral, feel free to contact our team.
It’s common to have questions about hip dysplasia and its treatment. Here are some we’re frequently asked.
It’s completely understandable to wonder about comfort when your baby starts Dennis Browne Bar (DBB) bracing. The brace is designed to gently guide the hips into an improved position, not to cause pain. Most babies adapt quickly and continue to kick, wriggle, play, and interact as usual.
With correct fitting and regular reviews, DBB bracing is generally well tolerated and gradually becomes part of your baby’s routine.
Yes. Babies can still move their legs, kick, wriggle, roll (sometimes) and explore their environment while wearing a Dennis Browne Bar (DBB).
The brace holds the hips in a healthy position while your baby continues to grow and develop. Milestones may look slightly different during treatment, but bracing supports safe joint development rather than preventing progress.
Yes. Dennis Browne Bar (DBB) bracing is designed to work within normal family routines. Babies can still be cuddled, fed, played with, and settled as usual. Most clothing, nappies, and car seats can be managed with small adjustments.
With a little guidance and routine, many families find that bracing quickly becomes part of everyday life.
The length of treatment varies, as every baby’s hips respond differently. Wear time is guided by your orthopaedic specialist and reviewed regularly, often every four to six weeks.
Many babies begin wearing the Dennis Browne Bar (DBB) for 23–24 hours per day, although this can change over time depending on progress. Your specialist will advise you on the expected duration and adjust the plan as your baby’s hips develop.
We regularly assess and fit babies with hip dysplasia, with ongoing reviews throughout treatment.
Our team understands the day-to-day realities of bracing – keeping your baby comfortable, checking skin, managing clothing, and making car seats and routines work.
At each appointment, we’ll explain what to monitor at home, when to get in touch, and what the next review involves, so you feel clear about the plan and next steps.
We work closely with paediatric orthopaedic surgeons across Melbourne to provide coordinated treatment for hip dysplasia.
Bracing is a well-established treatment for hip dysplasia. This guide explains how to get started and how to make treatment manageable in everyday family life.
With expert care and guidance, we’ll help you feel supported every step of the way.
