SUPPORT OUR CAMPAIGN TO RAISE AWARENESS AND IMPROVE TRAINING GUIDELINES FOR HEALTH PROFESSIONALS REGARDING INFANT HIP PROBLEMS

STEPS is launching its Baby Hip Health Week 23rd - 28th February 2009 to coincide with the publication of their report into standards of screening and diagnosis in Hospitals and Primary Care Trusts (PCT's) regarding the baby hip examination.

FACT: Every year, up to 2000 babies and children are diagnosed with Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) which describes a range of conditions from mild instability and immaturity to total dislocation of the hip

FACT: Early detection usually means less severe treatment which can include full body plaster casts (hip spicas) and even surgery

FACT: Initial findings from the research indicate that alarmingly many PCT's do not even have a hip examination policy which is an important part of the newborn and 6-8 week physical baby health check.

HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED:

• Host a 'Put the Kettle on' event whereby you hold a tea/coffee morning at home, work or in the community to spread the word about our campaign and help raise vital funds at the same time
• Distribute the STEPS award wining leaflet on Baby Hip Health to your local surgery or clinic
• Get your story featured in a local magazine or newspaper to raise awareness
• Join our launch, Tuesday 24 February 2009, at the House of Commons where we will summarise the key findings from our report into standards of screening and diagnosis in Hospitals and Primary Care Trusts (PCT'S) regarding the baby hip examination to MPs and press.

Anyone wishing to get further advice,  tell their story to the local paper, distribute leaflets or wanting to host a "Put the Kettle on" event please contact the STEPS helpline or email info@steps-charity.org.uk or phone 0871 717 0044 

FURTHER DETAILS ON HIPS:

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.

Chloe was only diagnosed at 3 and half years old, her mother says, "I was told there was nothing wrong with Chloe's hips even through she had different leg lengths. But I persisted - call it a mother's instinct - and the condition was finally diagnosed."

If you are concerned your child has a hip problem please seek advice from your GP or Health Visitor immediately since treatment is usually less complex the earlier it is started.