Those feelings intensified when she was diagnosed with bilateral hip dysplasia when she was 3 weeks old after a referral to Shriners Children’s New England.
“Being first-time parents is a huge adjustment and comes with challenges that everyone talks about,” said Melissa. “But we weren’t prepared to receive such an unexpected diagnosis. Although that appointment changed the course of Lily’s early life, it also gave us confidence that we were exactly where we needed to be.”
Developmental dysplasia of the hip, or DDH, is the most common orthopedic disorder in newborns. It is a misalignment or instability of the hip, a ball-and-socket joint. Typically, the ball at the top of the thighbone fits into the hip socket. Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip joint does not develop properly, allowing the ball to slip partially or completely out of the socket.
After Lily’s exam in the hospital nursery revealed potential hip instability, a follow-up ultrasound was recommended. DDH is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical testing and ultrasound imaging. First-born females, babies with a family history of DDH, and those in breech presentation during pregnancy or delivery have a higher risk of DDH.
Lily’s pediatrician referred Melissa and Casey to Shriners Children’s New England, where they met with nurse practitioner Keri Garry. “I performed a physical exam followed by a dynamic hip ultrasound in the office at Lily’s first visit,” said Keri. “This showed that her right hip was mostly dislocated at rest and her left hip was also unstable.”
Melissa and Casey were stunned by the diagnosis. “Hip dysplasia was something neither of us knew much about,” said Melissa. “We were scared and uncertain about what it would mean for Lily’s future.”
We truly count our lucky stars that Shriners Children’s New England is part of our community.
As they absorbed Lily’s diagnosis, Melissa and Casey were grateful for Keri’s reassurance, compassion and understanding. “Keri carefully walked us through the diagnosis, discussed the treatment plan, answered every question we had and gave us all the time we needed to process the news,” said Melissa. “There was never any sense of being rushed. This act of kindness from a provider is something that will stick with us forever.”
The gold standard for treatment of DDH is the Pavlik harness, a dynamic brace that promotes proper joint development by keeping the hip stable while allowing for natural movement. Melissa and Casey opted to have Keri place the harness on Lily that same day so her treatment could begin immediately.
Lily wore the Pavlik harness for six weeks before transitioning to a hip abduction brace, which allows her hips to continue developing as she grows. Regular follow-up appointments with Keri provided reassurance that she was making steady improvement. According to Melissa, nothing has slowed Lily down. “She laughs and kicks her legs as much as she can. Her treatment has been spectacular, and her progress has been exceptional.”
Now, Lily only wears a brace at naptime and bedtime. Soon she will visit the Shriners Children’s New England radiology department for her first X-rays to help determine if continued bracing or any further interventions are needed. She will be monitored for the next five years. “Research tells us that a hip that’s normal by age 5 will generally not need surgery in the future,” said Keri. “If screened and treated appropriately, hip dysplasia generally does not affect the ability to achieve motor milestones and participate in future activities.”
Melissa and Casey hope their experience can help other families navigate a hip dysplasia diagnosis. “It is completely normal to feel overwhelmed, scared or sad,” said Melissa. “At the same time, we would encourage other families to take things one day at a time. It truly does get easier. Children are incredibly resilient, and this experience has shown us just how strong our little girl really is.”
Finding the right care environment for Lily made all the difference to Melissa and Casey as they began life together as a family. “We truly count our lucky stars that Shriners Children’s New England is part of our community,” said Melissa. “We want to say thank you for the exceptional care, compassion and empathy they have shown our family. Their support has made an overwhelming diagnosis feel manageable, and their dedication has helped Lily thrive. We will always be grateful for the role Shriners Children’s has played in Lily’s journey and in our lives.”
Lily's bright blue eyes shine as she enjoys some tummy time.
