Athletes with hip dysplasia: current understanding, management and future directions

Hip dysplasia is a developmental condition that can be congenital or occur throughout childhood and increases the risk of hip osteoarthritis. It is associated with pain and impairments in young adults and can be career-ending for professional athletes. Rehabilitation often involves high-level goals and expectations, and there is no guarantee that interventions (both surgical and non-surgical) can always achieve these. Existing research in adults with hip dysplasia has focused on non-athletes undergoing surgery, with minimal studies in athletes. To guide future research, it is important to appreciate current knowledge and recognise gaps in the literature. The aim of this editorial is to outline what is known about athletes with hip dysplasia and offer considerations for management and future studies