Normal Ranges of Hip Motion in Infants Six Weeks, Three Months and Six Months of Age

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Abstract
Flexion contracture, internal rotation and external rotation of the hip were reported in 40 infants at 6 weeks and 3 months and in an independent sample of 40 infants at 6 months of age. Population means and normal ranges of motion were determined for use in the evaluation of hip problems and their treatment. A mean hip flexion contracture of 19 degrees was present at 6 weeks of age, decreasing to 7 degrees by three months, but still persisting at 6 months suggesting that forceful extension of the hip in infants may be contraindicated. Hip flexion contracture decreased in every child from 6 weeks to three months. In all cases, external rotation was greater than internal rotation. Internal rotation greater than external rotation before the age of 6 months appears contrary to normal development. There was a significant correlation between the changes in hip flexion contracture and internal rotation from 6 weeks to 3 months. An interesting extension of this study would be a longitudinal follow-up of infants beyond 6 months of age to further define these developmental trends.

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