INTERCONNECTED HIP JOINT PARAMETERS, FUNCTIONAL MOBILITY, AND QUALITY OF LIFE IN PATIENTS WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DYSPLASIA OF THE HIP: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Objective: This study aimed to determine the relationships between hip joint parameters, functional mobility, and quality of life in patients with DDH. Methods:This cross-sectional study involved 35 patients suffering from DDH. Functional mobility was measured with the timed up and go (TUG) test. Hip joint parameters were assessed for range of motion (ROM), abduction, and internal/external rotation. Quality of life was assessed via the Short Form-36 (SF-36) Health Survey. Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to establish variable relationships, considering a statistical significance of p < 0.05. Results: A strong positive correlation, r = 0.683, p < 0.01, was found between the right and left hip ROMs. Fixed flexion contracture was significantly associated with both fixed abduction (r = 0.592, p < 0.01) and limb length discrepancy (r = 0.350, p < 0.05). Avascular necrosis (AVN) showed a strong correlation with limb length discrepancy (r = 0.655, p < 0.01). There was no significant relationship between sex and hip joint parameters (p > 0.05). The average TUG test time was 14.65 seconds (SD = 2.98), indicating a moderate level of functional disability. Conclusions:This study revealed significant associations between hip joint parameters, mobility, and quality of life in DDH patients, emphasizing the need for early intervention. Key findings include bilateral hip symmetry, contracture-related limb discrepancies, and AVN impacts, highlighting the importance of multidisciplinary care to improve outcomes. Keywords:Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip, Functional Mobility, Quality of Life, Range of Motion, Avascular Necrosis, Limb Length Discrepancy, Public Health