Valentina

A family’s journey through hip dysplasia treatment

We first met Valentina shortly after she was born, following a clinical diagnosis of hip dysplasia. When she was just eight days old, Valentina began treatment in a Denis Browne Brace (DBB) to help guide healthy development of her hips.

Like many parents receiving an early diagnosis, Valentina’s family experienced a mix of emotions — worry, uncertainty, and a strong desire to do everything possible to support their baby.

Valentina’s mum, Alisha, shares their experience to help reassure other families who may be beginning a similar journey.

How did you feel when Valentina was first diagnosed?

Valentina was clinically diagnosed with hip dysplasia at birth, so we felt a mix of emotions. At first we felt sad and anxious because we didn’t know much about hip dysplasia or what the road ahead would look like for our daughter.

After her ultrasound and meeting with the specialist team to confirm the diagnosis, I remember feeling grateful and confident in the treatment plan for Valentina.

What were your biggest worries at the beginning?

We were mostly worried about her comfort and development.

Valentina was only eight days old when she started wearing the brace, so it quickly became her new normal. However, in those early weeks we wondered how things like tummy time and rolling would progress as she grew.

What was it like when Valentina first started wearing the brace?

We became very attentive and gentle with everything we did because we didn’t want to disturb the brace or cause her discomfort.

We had to learn new ways of holding her, changing nappies and feeding her, but these adjustments soon became second nature.

Were there any particular challenges in the early weeks?

We were very fortunate that Valentina adapted to the brace quite quickly because she was so young.

The main challenges were the occasional tricky nappy change and finding clothes — especially pants — that fitted comfortably over the brace.

When did things start to feel easier or more manageable?

Within the first couple of weeks we started to feel much more comfortable managing everyday routines with the brace.

Changing nappies, dressing her, and putting her in the car seat all became part of our normal routine.

What would you say to another parent who has just been told their baby needs a brace?

I completely understand the mix of emotions you may be feeling — worried, scared, anxious, and also grateful that your baby has access to specialists who can diagnose and treat them.

All of those feelings are valid.

Our babies are often far more resilient than we expect, and you will gradually adapt to your new normal. Some days may feel hard and tiring, but you and your baby will find the strength to keep moving forward towards healthy hips.