An ultrasound can detect skeletal abnormalities before birth. However, determining the particular kind of dysplasia might be challenging during pregnancy (before birth). Many obstetricians do an ultrasound exam during the 20th week of pregnancy as part of standard prenatal care. This allows for detection of many types of skeletal dysplasias. After birth, pediatricians often conduct routine checks to make sure babies are developing normally. These examinations include checking the child's height and weight compared with other children of similar age, looking at any problems with their joints or bones, and evaluating how their eyes are doing. The doctor may also check to see if the skin is thick or thin, smooth or wrinkled, dark or light colored, warm or cold. If a physician suspects that you have skeletal dysplasia, then he or she will likely want to know your full history. You should tell them about any symptoms you have been experiencing, such as pain when walking or exercising, trouble sleeping due to bone fractures, and fatigue. In some cases, skeletal X-rays are used to diagnose skeletal dysplasias. These images show any problems with the growth of bone tissue, such as increased density, deformities, or gaps. Bone densitometry scans can measure the amount of mineral content in various parts of the body, including the spine and hips.