National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center, a program of the National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences

Turner syndrome

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My daughter was diagnosed with Turner syndrome at the age of 21. She has flat feet and one leg is shorter than the other, which affects the way she walks. Could this be caused by hip dysplasia?  Is there anything that can be done to improve the way she walks?

The following information may help to address your question:


Could my daughter’s walking problems be caused by hip dysplasia?

Only your daughter’s healthcare provider can determine what might be affecting the way she walks. We can provide you with general information on hip dysplasia and Turner syndrome, which we hope you find helpful.
Last updated: 3/4/2011

Is Turner syndrome associated with hip dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia, also known as developmental dysplasia of the hip, is a dislocation or instability of the hip joint that is present at birth.[1]  Hip dysplasia occurs more frequently in girls with Turner syndrome than in the general population.[2]  The affect of hip dysplasia depends, in part, on its severity. Dislocations in only one hip can cause one leg to be longer than the other, which can lead to walking (gait) problems and pain in the hips and knees.[1]  As individuals with Turner syndrome get older, hip dysplasia can contribute to the development of arthritis in the hips.[2]  
Last updated: 3/4/2011

How might hip dysplasia be treated?

Treatment options for hip dysplasia are tailored for each individual and should be discussed with an orthopedist on a case by case basis.  Treatment depends, in part, on the patient's age and the severity of hip dysplasia. 

Typically, infants are placed in a non-surgical harness to keep the legs apart and turned outward (frog-leg position) in order to hold the hip joint in place while the child grows. Alternatively, a cast may be placed on the child's leg and changed as the child grows.[1][3]

Hip dysplasia detected in an older child or young adult may be associated with worse outcomes and usually requires complex surgery to correct the problem.[1]  If left untreated, hip dysplasia will lead to arthritis and deterioration of the hip.[4]

Last updated: 6/3/2011

We hope this information is helpful. We strongly recommend you discuss this information with your doctor. If you still have questions, please contact us.

Warm regards,
GARD Information Specialist

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  1. McCarthy J. Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip. E-medicine. September 23, 2009; http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1248135-overview. Accessed 2/25/2011.
  2. Frias J, et al. Health Supervision for Children With Turner Syndrome . Pediatrics. March, 2003;
  3. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Developmental Dislocation of the Hip (DDH). April 2009; http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00347. Accessed 3/3/2011.
  4. Stoker SK, et al. Developmental dysplasia of the hip. Medlineplus. March 24, 2009; http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000971.htm. Accessed 3/3/2011.