Hip Dysplasia Compensation

If your child has been diagnosed with hip dysplasia and you suspect that it was previously missed or misdiagnosed, or that mistakes were made in its treatment, you should seek legal advice as soon as possible. Congenital hip dysplasia is a condition with potentially lifelong consequences, and it is vital to explore all your options for getting the support your family will require.

Dealing with a medical condition like hip dysplasia, also known as congenital hip dysplasia, can be emotionally draining and physically challenging. The condition not only affects the individual, but also has an impact on the entire family. We understand how difficult it can be to deal with this condition, which is why we are dedicated to making sure you get the compensation your child needs. 

Our team of legal experts specialises in medical negligence cases, particularly those involving hip dysplasia and congenital hip dysplasia claims. We are committed to guiding you every step of the way, from understanding your eligibility for making a claim to what kind of compensation you can expect. Our aim is to make the legal process as smooth as possible for you, so you can focus on what's most important: your family's wellbeing.

Call JMW today on 0345 872 6666, or complete our online enquiry form and we will be in touch with you to discuss your case on a no win, no fee basis.

How JMW Can Help

When it comes to navigating the complex landscape of medical negligence and hip dysplasia compensation claims, you need a legal partner with a strong understanding of the medical negligence claims process, and a compassionate approach to your personal needs. This is what JMW Solicitors offers you.

We understand that you and your family may have been through a difficult time, which is why our solicitors provide legal advice in a sensitive and efficient manner. Our medical negligence team is well respected within the industry for helping to obtain compensation to support clients in improving their quality of life.

We have years of experience and a track record of successful outcomes in this area, and bring a level of expertise that is hard to match. From the initial consultation to the final settlement, we work tirelessly to make the legal process as straightforward as possible for you. This includes gathering evidence, liaising with medical professionals and arranging for expert medical assessments to strengthen your case.

Throughout the process, we will make sure that we always communicate in a clear, straightforward manner, ensuring you're fully informed at every stage of the process. We're here to answer any questions you may have.

With solicitors who are members of the Action against Medical Accidents (AvMA) solicitors panel and the Law Society’s specialist panel of clinical negligence solicitors, you can be certain that we are experts at what we do, using our knowledge and experience to gain the results you deserve.

What's more, we operate on a no win, no fee basis, which means you don't have to worry about legal fees unless we win your case. This allows you to pursue justice and compensation without the added financial stress of worrying about a costly legal bill.

What is hip dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia is a medical condition that usually starts in infancy. The condition is also known as congenital hip dysplasia, but because it is not actually present at birth in all cases, it is most accurately known as developmental dysplasia of the hip.

This condition involves the abnormal development of the hip joint, where the ball of the thigh bone doesn't fit properly into the hip socket. It can affect either or both hips at the same time, but most commonly affects the left hip.

This misalignment in the ball and socket joint can lead to a range of issues, from mild discomfort to severe pain and mobility challenges. This is because the hip joint is typically one of the most flexible in the human body, and needs to allow for a wide range of motion; when it doesn't form correctly, it can result in wear and tear on the joint's cartilage, potentially leading to early-onset osteoarthritis and affecting the person's quality of life.

Hip dysplasia can vary in severity and may manifest at different life stages, from infancy to adulthood. Treatment approaches also vary, ranging from monitoring and physical therapy to surgical intervention in severe cases. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing the condition effectively and preventing long-term complications.

What are the common signs and symptoms of hip dysplasia in infants?

Recognising the signs and symptoms of hip dysplasia in infants is key for early intervention and effective treatment. All babies should be screened for hip dysplasia during their newborn health check and referred for treatment if the signs are present. While some symptoms may be subtle and not immediately noticeable, parents and caregivers should watch out for the following indicators especially:

• Asymmetry in leg folds: one of the first things you might notice is that the skin folds on the thighs or buttocks appear uneven. One leg may have more or fewer folds than the other, or they may be situated at different heights.
• Limited range of motion: if one hip seems less flexible or has a more restricted range of movement compared to the other, it could be a sign of hip dysplasia. For instance, you may find it difficult to fully spread your baby's legs apart when changing their nappies.
• Different leg lengths: although slight variations in leg length are common, a significant difference could be a sign of hip dysplasia. You may notice that one leg appears shorter than the other when you lay your baby down.
• Limping or waddling: as your baby starts to crawl or walk, pay attention to their gait. A limp, waddle or uneven crawling pattern can be indicative of hip dysplasia.
• Clicking or popping sounds: while not all clicking or popping sounds are cause for concern, consistent noises coming from the hip area during movement may warrant further investigation.
• Favouring one side: if your baby seems to prefer lying on one side or seems uncomfortable lying on a particular side, it could be an indication of discomfort in the hip area.
• Delayed motor skills: while each baby develops at their own pace, delays in reaching certain milestones like sitting up, crawling or walking could be related to hip dysplasia.

If you notice any of these signs, consult a medical professional for a thorough examination and appropriate diagnostic tests. Early detection is key to effective treatment and can help prevent long-term complications.

What are the causes of congenital hip dysplasia?

Understanding the causes of congenital hip dysplasia can be complex, as it often involves a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some of the most common causes include:

• Genetic predisposition: family medical history plays a significant role in the likelihood of a child developing hip dysplasia. If a parent, sibling or other close relative has had the condition, the risk is notably higher.
• Sex: females are more susceptible to hip dysplasia than males. This is thought to be due to the effects of the hormone relaxin, which makes the ligaments more flexible and could potentially lead to instability in the hip joint.
• Birth order: first-born children are at a higher risk of developing hip dysplasia. This is believed to be because the uterus is smaller during a first pregnancy, providing less room for the baby to move, which could result in an abnormal hip development.
• Position in the womb: the baby’s position during pregnancy can also influence the development of the hips. Breech babies, or those who are positioned feet-first in the womb, are at a higher risk.
• Multiple births: twins, triplets or higher-order multiples are more likely to develop hip dysplasia, often due to the limited space available in the womb, leading to cramped conditions that can affect proper hip development.
• Low levels of amniotic fluid: amniotic fluid acts as a cushion for the developing baby. Lower levels can result in less protection and less space for the baby to move, potentially affecting hip development.
• Swaddling practices: incorrect swaddling that restricts the movement of the hips can also contribute to hip dysplasia. It is vital to follow proper swaddling techniques that allow the hips to move freely.

Understanding these causes can help in early detection and prevention. If you have concerns about any of these risk factors, it's essential to speak to a doctor about it as soon as possible.

What are the consequences of undiagnosed hip dysplasia?

The consequences of undiagnosed or late-diagnosed hip dysplasia can be severe, affecting a child's mobility and overall wellbeing. Chronic hip pain is often the most immediate concern, making everyday activities like walking or climbing stairs a challenge. This pain can persist into adulthood if not properly addressed. Additionally, untreated hip dysplasia can lead to a limited range of motion, causing delays in key developmental milestones such as crawling and walking.

Over time, these physical limitations can result in gait abnormalities and even premature osteoarthritis, requiring significant medical intervention like hip replacements at a young age. The condition can also have an impact on a child's emotional and social development, potentially leading to feelings of isolation and mental health issues like anxiety or depression.

The financial and emotional toll of managing hip dysplasia can be substantial for families. Frequent medical appointments, potential surgeries and long-term physical therapy can be both time-consuming and costly. Given these far-reaching consequences, early diagnosis and treatment will likely improve the child's quality of life and prevent more severe complications down the line.

When am I eligible to claim hip dysplasia compensation?

Determining eligibility for hip dysplasia compensation involves several key factors. First and foremost, you must be able to prove that medical negligence occurred, either in the form of a late diagnosis, misdiagnosis or improper treatment. This could mean that medical professionals failed to perform necessary screenings or tests, misinterpreted test results, or did not provide adequate treatment options in a timely manner.

The timing of the claim is also important. Generally, there is a legal time limit within which you must file a claim for medical negligence. For adults, this is usually within three years from the date you became aware of the negligence. However, for claims involving those under the age of 18, the time limit extends until the child turns 21 years old. It's important to consult with legal experts to understand the specific time constraints that may apply to your case.

Thirdly, you'll need to prove medical negligence directly resulted in harm or worsened the condition. This means gathering medical records, expert opinions and other evidence to demonstrate a clear link between the medical negligence and the severity or progression of the hip dysplasia.

Given these complexities, it's highly advisable to consult with the experienced clinical negligence solicitors at JMW, who can guide you through the process and help you determine your eligibility for hip dysplasia compensation.

What compensation can I expect to receive for a hip dysplasia claim?

The amount of compensation you can expect for a hip dysplasia claim varies based on several factors, making each case unique. One of the most significant determinants is the severity of the condition, which can influence medical costs, loss of earnings and the need for long-term care. These medical expenses can encompass everything from initial diagnostic tests to surgeries and ongoing therapies.

Another aspect is the emotional and physical toll, often categorised as "pain and suffering," which aims to compensate for reduced quality of life and emotional distress. 

What evidence is needed to support a hip dysplasia compensation claim?

To build a strong case for hip dysplasia compensation, you'll need various types of evidence:

• Medical records: secure all medical history, including X-rays and diagnostic tests, to establish the timeline of your condition.
• Expert opinions: obtain an independent assessment from a medical specialist in orthopaedics or paediatrics to validate the diagnosis and treatment.
• Witness statements: collect statements from family or friends who can attest to the challenges your family has faced due to hip dysplasia.
• Financial documentation: keep records of all expenses your family has experienced related to the condition, including medical bills and travel costs.
• Employment records: if a hip dysplasia diagnosis in the family has impacted your work, provide employment records and payslips to show loss of earnings.
• Photographic and video evidence: use photos or videos that demonstrate the physical limitations or difficulties faced.
• Correspondence: include any communication between you and your healthcare providers that could serve as evidence.
• Timeline of events: create a detailed timeline to clarify when symptoms were first noticed and what actions were taken by healthcare providers.

Each piece of evidence strengthens your claim, so consult a legal expert to ensure you're gathering the most relevant information.

How long does the hip dysplasia compensation claims process typically take?

The duration of the hip dysplasia compensation claims process can vary depending on a range of factors, but due to their complexity, it can sometimes take years to properly investigate the alleged negligent care and the lifelong care needs of the child. However, for cases that are successful, we can obtain interim compensation payments to help to pay for the things your child needs ahead of the final settlement.

Here's a breakdown of some of the elements that can influence the timescale:

• The complexity of the case: more complex cases, where it's more difficult to establish medical negligence or the extent of the injury, can take longer to resolve.
• Approach taken by the defendant healthcare organisation: If the hospital or GP that the case is against fails to accept that mistakes were made, even in the face of strong evidence, then this can drag things out unnecessarily. 
• Availability of evidence: the quicker we can gather all the necessary evidence, the faster the claims process can move forward. Delays in obtaining medical records, or waiting lists for the best expert opinions, can slow things down.
• Court backlogs: sometimes, the legal system itself is a factor. If the courts are backlogged, even a straightforward case can be delayed.
• Your legal team: the efficiency and expertise of your solicitors can also impact how long the process takes. Experienced legal teams move the case along by preempting delays and advising of the best steps to take.

Given these variables, it is important to make sure you have a highly qualified legal team on your side. Get in touch with JMW and we will be able to provide you with a more precise estimate of how long the case might take.

We operate on a no win, no fee basis, which means that any legal fees will be deducted from the final settlement. This ensures that you will not owe us anything if the case is unsuccessful, and will never need to pay anything out of pocket.