Why do patients with hip dysplasia go years without a diagnosis?

In this episode, physical therapist and researcher Dr. Libby Bergman explains why hip dysplasia in young adults is frequently overlooked—and what clinicians can do to catch it earlier.

Her research explores whether simple clinical tests physical therapists already use—range of motion, strength testing, and hypermobility measures—might help identify hidden hip instability.

The findings could help clinicians recognize hip dysplasia sooner and potentially prevent years of unexplained pain and delayed treatment.

In this conversation we discuss:

• Why hip dysplasia is commonly missed

• Early clinical signs physical therapists should watch for

• Why athletes like dancers and swimmers may be at higher risk

• New research linking range of motion and adductor strength to dysplasia

• Why patients often wait 5–7 years for the correct diagnosis