Hip dysplasia, also known as developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), refers to malformation of the hip joint resulting in misalignment. It can occur because of a problem within the ball (femoral head), the socket (acetabulum) or in both components of the joint. It is most commonly congenital or develops in the first few years of life. If diagnosed at birth or shortly thereafter, dysplasia can be successfully treated with bracing devices. When discovered later in life, the condition often requires surgery.