Tubingen hip flexion and abduction orthosis

Tilda lying down with the Tubingen hip flexion and abduction orthosis


Benefits at a glance

Tilda’s mother holds her as she wears the Tubingen hip flexion and abduction orthosis.

Natural posture

The position that your baby assumes when wearing the Tubingen hip flexion and abduction orthosis is familiar to them. This was previously their favoured position in the womb. It usually ensures optimum development of the hip joints. If this doesn’t occur as it should, the orthosis corrects the problem after birth.

The Tubingen hip flexion and abduction orthosis is applied.

Very easy to use

During the initial fitting of the Tubingen hip flexion and abduction orthosis, your doctor will explain exactly how the orthosis works to correct hip dysplasia and how to apply it. Only operate the hook-and-loop closure and the white clips. After just a short time, putting it on will feel as normal as changing a nappy.

Tilda wears the Tubingen hip flexion and abduction orthosis as she lies on the changing table.

Quick familiarisation

It’s completely normal for babies to resist their new companion at first. They may cry more frequently in the first few days and appear fussy. After just a few days, your baby will get used to the orthosis. If they continue to resist it, talk to your doctor.

Tilda wears the Tubingen hip flexion and abduction orthosis as Dr Lorenz passes her to her mum

Proven treatment

The Tubingen hip flexion and abduction orthosis has been successfully used to treat hip dysplasia for over 30 years. In Germany, it is by far the most frequently used orthosis. Its effectiveness has been scientifically proven.

Tilda wears the Tubingen hip flexion and abduction orthosis

Suitable for everyday use

The Tubingen hip flexion and abduction orthosis is designed in such a way that it can easily be worn anytime and anywhere – whether your baby is in an infant carrier, a child seat or going swimming. It is completely washable and even resistant to salt water, making it a reliable companion for your baby’s first swim in the sea as well.

Clinical picture and treatment

Normal compared to delayed hip development – illustration of hip dysplasia in babies

What is hip dysplasia?

Some babies’ hip joints do not develop as they should if they are in an unfavourable position in the womb. This can mean that the bone development of the acetabulum is incomplete or that the socket itself is too shallow. As a result, the head of the thigh bone is not covered by the socket as it should be.

Hip dysplasia is usually diagnosed using sonography (an ultrasound examination). It is important to act quickly if this condition is diagnosed. The sooner the undeveloped joint is treated, the better the healing process will be. This is where the Tubingen hip flexion and abduction orthosis comes into play. When babies wear the splint, they assume a position that promotes the natural development process of the joints. The hip can develop, and there is no long-term damage such as osteoarthritis in young adulthood.

Dr Lorenz with the Tubingen hip flexion and abduction orthosis

Getting used to the orthosis requires consistency!

“Parents, it’s worth being strict! Especially for your child’s sake. Because if you don’t apply the orthosis as your doctor has prescribed, this may result in one or both of the femoral heads becoming dislocated from the sockets. Immature hip joints that are not sufficiently treated can cause premature wearing of the cartilage and subsequently osteoarthritis when your child is a young adult. This often requires hip surgery later on.” Dr Heiko Lorenz, Paediatric Orthopaedist, Göttingen University Hospital

More than one quarter of a million babies around the world have worn the Tubingen hip flexion and abduction orthosis since the late 1980s. Numerous studies prove the excellent treatment outcomes. Your baby’s hips will develop normally if you use the orthosis consistently. The more consistent you are now, the easier things will be for your baby.

Illustration of the leg position with the Tubingen hip flexion and abduction orthosis

Treatment for hip dysplasia

The Tubingen hip flexion and abduction orthosis for treating hip dysplasia causes your baby’s hips to flex at more than 90° while both of the legs are spread (abducted) by 30 to 45°. Your doctor will use regular ultrasound exams (every six weeks or so) to monitor the healing process. These exams are used to measure the angle between the head and socket of the joint. The doctor will also check the position of the femoral head and the extent to which the socket is still deformed. Based on these exams, they can determine when and how often the orthosis needs to be readjusted. Once the hip measurements have reached the normal range (typically between the sixth and eighth week), the process of “weaning” your baby off the orthosis begins. In other words, your doctor gradually reduces the amount of time your baby wears the orthosis. At first, it is removed during the day and worn only at night. Your doctor will decide when you can stop using the orthosis entirely. Then the final checkup takes place, which usually involves taking an X-ray of the pelvis.

Downloads

Please download file:

Information for parents – Tubinger Hip Abduction Orthosis

The information gives parents information on how to put on the orthosis. In the poster format, important elements of the orthosis are depicted and the individual application steps are shown. In addition, useful information and care tips are given.

FAQs