The evaluation of congenital hip dislocation begins with a medical history and physical examination.

Examination of the hips is a normal part of well-baby care. The diagnosis of congenital hip dislocation may be suspected on physical exam.

Physical findings may include:

• Ortolani test:
• A physical maneuver where the doctor attempts to re-locate a hip that is dislocated. A clunk is felt as the hip slides back into place.
• Galeazzi's sign:
• Positive, when the legs are found to be of different lengths.
• Barlow's test:
• Used to stress the hip joints to see if they easily dislocate.

This diagnosis of congenital hip dislocation is usually confirmed through testing.

Tests that may be used to evaluate congenital hip dislocation include:

• X-rays of the hip:
• Of limited use in infants because the bone are not fully formed and do not show up on x-ray
• Dynamic ultrasound may be a better test to see the hip structures.