What Causes Frog Legs in Babies?

Frog leg position in babies is characterized by flexed hips and outward-spread legs, resembling a frog. This natural posture is common in newborns and young infants. It typically occurs during early development and resolves on its own as the baby grows, requiring no medical intervention in most cases.

While the frog leg position is normal, medical providers must be particular about more extreme postures. Severe or asymmetrical frog-like positions might be a sign of underlying hip issues, such as hip dysplasia. Through early diagnosis and treatment, long-term impairments from such underlying conditions may be mitigated or avoided altogether.

Doctors have the duty to protect the well-being of both mother and child. Failure to address risk factors; failure to diagnose the condition early; and lapses during the delivery process are medical negligence that may exacerbate frog legs/hip dysplasia. Families that are affected by such negligences may seek compensation through medical malpractice claims

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What Causes Hip Dysplasia in Babies?

Hip dysplasia is a developmental disorder characterized by abnormal formation of the hip joint. It involves insufficient coverage of the femoral head by the acetabulum, leading to joint instability. Severity ranges from mild subluxation to complete dislocation, potentially causing long-term functional impairment if left untreated.

Several maternal, infant, or genetic risk factors have been associated with this condition.These risk factors are:

  • Being a first time mother
  • Having a female child
  • Infant in breech position (baby’s bottom is presented first)
  • Family history of the disorder
  • Large birth weight

These risk factors must be addressed effectively by medical providers to avoid hip dysplasia after birth. In cases where there is apparent maternal or fetal distress, medical teams must respond promptly – otherwise, they could be held liable for any birth injuries they might cause.

Preventing Hip Dysplasia from Developing

Hip dysplasia in babies can lead to several potential long-term effects if not addressed properly. Several measures – before and after birth – may be taken to lessen the possibility of hip dysplasia in newborns. These measures include:

  1. Regular check-up and screening during pregnancy
  2. Genetic counseling (for families with history of hip dysplasia)
  3. Proper swaddling
  4. Using hip-healthy baby carriers
  5. Doing exercises that encourage hip development
  6. Avoiding prolonged baby walkers or jumpers

Apart from early diagnosis and proper treatment, doctors must also properly educate their patients on child care – especially first time parents. Doctors must also conduct regular evaluations of the newborn to ensure that they are healthy and well.

Early diagnosis also effectively prevents the development of this condition. It allows affected children to receive all necessary treatments before their condition worsens. In order to catch the condition early, medical providers may perform the following:

Physical Examinations

- Ortolani test, where the hip is gently abducted and lifted to feel for clunking
- Barlow test, where a downward pressure is applied on the thigh to check for instability
- Galeazzi sign, where leg lengths are compared for asymmetry

Imaging Tests

- Ultrasound, which is the primary tool used for infants under 6 months
- X-rays, typically used for older infants and children

Observation Of:

- Limited hip abduction
- Asymmetric skin folds on thighs
- Apparent leg length discrepancy

Routine Screenings

- Performed during regular pediatric check-ups

The incidence of developmental hip dysplasia in the US is approximately 10 per 1000 live births; and at birth, 1 in 1000 cases have dislocated hips. In Native Americans, the reported incidence is found to be 10+ times higher. In African individuals, developmental dysplasia of the hip is rarely identified.

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Treatment and Compensation

Treatments for hip dysplasia vary from case to case. Naturally, more severe cases require more complementary approaches. Age also plays a huge factor when designing treatment plans for children. Treatments for said condition may include:

  • Pavlik Harnessa soft brace for infants, keeps hips in proper position
  • Abduction Bracesimilar to Pavlik, used for older infants or milder cases
  • Closed Reductionnon-surgical repositioning, followed by casting
  • Open Reduction Surgery surgical hip repositioning for severe cases
  • Pelvic/Femoral Osteotomyreshaping bones in older children
  • Physical Therapy strengthens muscles, improves joint mobility
  • Hip Spica Cast full-body cast used post-surgery or for some reductions

All medical expenses (past and future) are considered in a medical malpractice claim. In birth injury cases, compensation ensures that an injured child is provided with all the necessary support for their growth and development.

Apart from medical expenses, other economic and non-economic losses are also factored in. Lost income, emotional trauma, and decreased quality of life are some of the more common considerations. For actual compensation figures, please refer to our previous wins.

Speak to a Birth Injury Lawyer Today

At the Porter Law Group, our team of proven medical malpractice lawyers delivers ideal results. We take pride in helping families rebuild after unfavorable circumstances. We operate on a contingency basis – meaning you do not need to pay us anything unless we win your case. Through this approach, we can better support families during their times of need.

If you or a loved one has been a victim of medical malpractice, please reach out to us for a non-obligatory free case evaluation. You can also contact us at 833-PORTER9 or info@porterlawteam.com to schedule a consultation.

Last Updated on 
October 3, 2024
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