The typical scenario is that of a normal neonate who has a hip that can either be found dislocated or dislocatable after birth. This hip is usually easily reducible in the first several days. If the hip remains out of the socket, significant dysplasia can develop as early as three months. It is, therefore, important to diagnose this condition early. The diagnosis must be actively looked for in every infant examined.
Limited abduction is the most reliable sign in the older infant.
Bilateral dislocations are easier to miss than unilateral ones. Look for a shortened femur with the knees flexed, or a shortened extended leg. The hips should be flexed to a right angle with the fingers over the lateral aspects and thumbs anteriorly. Provoking reduced subluxable or dislocatable hip to become dislocated by applying stress. It has been suggested that this maneuver can contribute to hip instability and should be abandoned.