How long does the DB brace treatment last?

The child will be fitted with a DB brace, with the purpose of the treatment being to hold the femoral head in an optimal position ("frog position") in the hip socket. The DB brace should be used until an ultrasound examination shows normal conditions. Having hip dysplasia or hip dislocation and wearing a brace is not painful.

The treatment usually lasts for 6-12 weeks. During this period, the brace should not be removed. However, during outpatient nurse check-ups, the DB brace will be replaced as the child grows. Ultrasound examinations are carried out every 6 weeks, and when the hip is normal, the brace will be removed.

Afterward, the child will continue to be monitored with ultrasound and will have a final doctor’s check-up at 15 months of age.

Breastfeeding positions

Any positions where the legs are not pressed against the mother's stomach to avoid additional pressure on the inner thighs.

Elastic band

The elastic band is used to keep the brace in the correct position with the back part of the brace at the lower back. It should not be tighter than allowing one or two fingers to fit underneath it. The elastic may need to be loosened after breastfeeding, as the stomach might need to expand a bit.

Diaper and changing diapers

Diapers with good padding under the brace, especially around the tailbone, should be used to avoid pressure. In some cases, a larger diaper size may be necessary. We will show you the "pancake turning" technique, which we recommend using during diaper changes.

Clothes

Clothing should not be tight around the legs. You may need to use a size larger than normal. Pants with good elasticity/space or outfits with buttons along the legs are recommended.

Sleeping positions

When the child sleeps, place a rolled-up towel under the legs for support. Make sure there is enough space on both sides of the legs in the bed, bassinet, car seat, etc.

Bathing

Remove the elastic band during bathing. Protect the child from pressure on the tailbone by using a foam cloth or something similar on the brace. After the bath, dry the skin thoroughly under the brace to avoid fungal infections. Do not use oil in the water. The brace cannot tolerate chlorinated water, so the child should not go to the swimming pool or similar places. When bathing, be aware that the brace is heavy, and the child cannot hold themselves above the water.

Stomach exercises

The child's digestion may slow down, and you can use a few exercises to get it going again. You can press/massage under the feet and move the legs in circular motions in a clockwise direction. The child can also lie on their stomach as much as possible, as this helps stimulate bowel movements.

Helpful advice on equipment

The child can likely use a car seat, bassinet, and stroller, but it is important that the legs can lie freely and do not touch the sides of the car seat or stroller. A larger car seat may be necessary while the child is wearing the brace, such as the Maxi-Cosi Opal HD.

Examples of ergonomically good baby carriers suitable for children in a Denis Browne brace:

• Manduca baby carrier
• Ergobaby (especially model 360)
• Tula
• Baby to Grow