Breathe and Count Back from Ten

Hip dysplasia, also called developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a developmental condition that people are born with, but it may go undiagnosed until adolescence or even adulthood. DDH “occurs when the top of the thigh bone (femur), which normally fits tightly into the hip socket (acetabulum), has an imperfect fit” (“Developmental Hip Dysplasia Fact Sheet.” Boston Children’s Hospital) It’s also possible a child is born with a normal bone structure, but, as they grow and develop, misalignment slowly occurs (“Hip Dysplasia.” Boston Children’s Hospital). The most common symptoms are hip pain, knee pain, and uneven leg length. Verónica’s hip dysplasia was present from birth, but it was not diagnosed until it was too late for simple treatments, and she had to endure several surgeries. In hip dysplasia, the part of the femur (thigh bone) that connects to the hip does not align properly and causes pain, trouble walking, and limited activity. For Verónica, a major surgery that required her leg to be in a cast for several months caused her muscles to atrophy, so her doctor recommended swimming to strengthen her legs. Her doctor discouraged her from running and jumping, but Verónica did these things anyway to rebel against the implication that she was fragile. In adolescence, hip dysplasia can lead to issues such as bone necrosis, such as what Verónica experiences, early arthritis, and damage to other related joints such as the knees. In severe cases, a total hip replacement may be needed. Verónica feels isolated and treated differently because of her disability. She has her own definition for the condition, which is “the state of being displaced, inside and outside of your body” (52). Verónica eventually learns to accept her condition and to consider it an essential part of who she is.