If your child has been diagnosed with Congenital Hip Dysplasia (Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip – DDH) and you believe this could have been identified earlier, you may be entitled to make a hip dysplasia negligence claim. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment, and if medical professionals failed in their duty of care, it could result in long-term physical and emotional consequences for your child—and your family.

This guide explains everything you need to know about DDH compensation claims, including eligibility criteria, how the claims process works, and how much compensation you may be entitled to receive.

What is Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH)?

Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) is a condition where a baby’s hip joint fails to form properly. This misalignment can range from mild instability to complete dislocation. It is most commonly diagnosed at birth or during early infancy through physical examination and hip ultrasound screenings.

If left undiagnosed and untreated, DDH can lead to permanent damage, requiring surgery or even hip replacement in later life. Children may also suffer from limited mobility, chronic pain, and psychological effects.

Can I Make a DDH Medical Negligence Claim?

You may be eligible to make a congenital hip dysplasia claim if:

• Medical professionals failed to carry out standard postnatal hip checks

• There was a delay in referring your child for ultrasound or X-rays despite symptoms

• A family history or risk factor for DDH was ignored

• Treatment was delayed due to misdiagnosis or oversight

• Medical staff dismissed or failed to recognise clinical signs (clicky hips, uneven leg length, restricted movement)

To make a successful DDH negligence compensation claim, you need to demonstrate two things:

1. A breach of duty of care (substandard medical treatment)

2. That this breach caused avoidable harm (e.g., worsened condition or need for surgery)

Common Signs Medical Negligence Has Occurred in DDH Cases

Recognising signs of medical negligence in hip dysplasia cases can be difficult for parents. However, if any of the following occurred, it might indicate clinical failings:

• You noticed signs of DDH and raised concerns which were not taken seriously

• Your child had a clear family history of DDH but wasn’t offered screening

• Health visitors or doctors missed warning signs during regular checkups

• There was a delay in referring your child to an orthopaedic specialist

• Your child underwent corrective surgery that might have been avoidable with earlier treatment

If you believe your child suffered due to hip dysplasia misdiagnosis, contact a specialist medical negligence solicitor to assess your case.

How Do I Make a DDH Negligence Compensation Claim?

Filing a claim for DDH negligence involves a structured legal process, typically handled by a solicitor experienced in birth injury claims and paediatric negligence.

Step-by-step process:

1. Initial consultation – You’ll speak with a solicitor about your child’s diagnosis and medical history.

2. Case assessment – Your legal team will gather medical records and expert opinions to determine whether negligence occurred.

3. Letter of claim – If there is a valid claim, a formal letter will be sent to the NHS trust or private hospital involved.

4. Admissions or denial – The defendant may admit fault or defend the case.

5. Negotiations and compensation – Most cases settle out of court, though some may proceed to trial if fault is denied.

You usually have three years to bring a medical negligence claim, but for children, the time limit begins on their 18th birthday—giving you until they turn 21 to file a claim.

How Much Compensation Can I Expect for a DDH Negligence Claim?

Compensation for developmental dysplasia of the hip negligence varies depending on the severity of the injury and long-term impact. Settlements generally cover:

• Pain and suffering (physical and psychological)

• Loss of future earnings or career potential

• Medical treatment and rehabilitation costs

• Mobility aids or home adjustments

• Travel expenses to and from hospitals

Example compensation amounts (based on NHS negligence guidelines):

• Minor hip injuries: £12,000 – £25,000

• Moderate DDH requiring surgery: £40,000 – £100,000

• Severe cases involving long-term disability: £150,000 – £500,000+

These figures are estimates; your solicitor will work with medical experts to assess the full impact of the negligence.

Why Early Diagnosis of DDH is Crucial

Timely diagnosis of DDH usually means non-surgical treatment like a Pavlik harness, which can correct the issue with minimal impact. A delay in treatment can lead to:

• More invasive procedures (e.g., open reduction surgery)

• Prolonged rehabilitation

• Lifelong joint damage or hip replacement

• Loss of mobility and independence

• Psychological trauma from multiple operations

This makes early detection a critical part of a child’s care—and when missed, it can be a strong foundation for a birth injury negligence claim.

Can You Claim Against the NHS for DDH Negligence?

Yes. If your child received negligent care in an NHS facility, you have the legal right to bring a claim against the NHS Trust responsible. Claims are managed by NHS Resolution, the body that handles NHS negligence compensation.

You can also bring a claim against private healthcare providers, as all registered clinicians owe the same duty of care to their patients, whether under public or private systems.

Final Thoughts: Why You Shouldn’t Delay Making a DDH Claim

Caring for a child with a hip condition can be emotionally and financially draining. If the condition was caused or worsened due to medical negligence, you deserve support and justice. A successful DDH compensation claim can help cover the costs of treatment, ensure your child has the care they need, and provide recognition for the avoidable suffering caused.

To maximise your chances of success, speak with a specialist solicitor who handles paediatric medical negligence and understands the complexity of hip dysplasia claims. They can help build a strong case, gather the necessary evidence, and fight for the compensation your family deserves.