Guidelines for use of Frejkas pillow splint

1. The hip pillow should be used at all times, except when changing and washing. Make sure that it fits well.

2. Hold the baby under its bottom when changing and washing. Avoid pulling or lifting the legs.

3. The hip pillow is worn on top of nappy and babygrow.

4. Use loose clothing, so that the baby can freely move its legs.

5. Use a firm pillow/blanket of the same thickness as the hip pillow under the baby’s head and down to the upper edge of the hip pillow. This together with the hip pillow should make an even base.

6. The baby should sleep on a firm bed with plenty of space for its legs. Lay the downy loosely over the baby.

7. The hand should be placed at the centre of the groin when lifting the baby.

8. Tell the nurse at the baby clinic (helsestasjon) that the baby’s length must not be measured as stretching the legs can cause damage to the hip joints.

9. Baby swimming is not advisable.

10. The baby should otherwise be treated as normal.

At 12 weeks the baby shall have a check up with a new ultrasound. An x-ray of the hip joints will be taken when the baby is 6 and 10 months old. It is not until this age that the bones have developed enough to be visible on an x-ray.

The hospital will send you a written appointment for the check up.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact a nurse at the out-patients clinic. Telephone: 67 50 08 28