Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Exam

What is the condition characterized by malalignment of the femoral head within the acetabulum?

1. Osgood-Schlatter disease

2. Legg-Calve-Perthes disease

3. Congenital hip dysplasia

4. Patellofemoral syndrome

The correct answer is: Congenital hip dysplasia

The condition characterized by malalignment of the femoral head within the acetabulum is indeed congenital hip dysplasia. This orthopedic condition typically occurs during early development, where the hip joint does not form properly, leading to instability or improper alignment of the femoral head within the socket formed by the acetabulum. In congenital hip dysplasia, the femoral head may dislocate or subluxate due to the shallow depth of the acetabulum, resulting in potential difficulty with movement and weight-bearing in infants and young children. Early recognition and intervention, which may include bracing or surgical options, are essential to restore proper alignment and function of the hip joint, thereby reducing further complications later in life. The other conditions mentioned do not involve the malalignment of the femoral head within the acetabulum. For example, Osgood-Schlatter disease primarily affects the knee, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease involves avascular necrosis of the femoral head, and patellofemoral syndrome relates to knee pain and tracking issues of the patella. Thus, they are not relevant to the specific malalignment of the hip joint described in the question.