Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is the term used to describe the condition where the femoral head (ball) has an abnormal relationship to the acetabulum (socket). This can range from a severe dislocated hip where the ball is not in contact with the socket; to a stable hip with a shallow acetabulum (socket). Good hips to start out life are very important. If the hip joints have not developed properly when a baby takes its first steps, the scenario may be set for hip troubles later in life.