1st Orthopedic Visit

Norah in her "taco brace"

Pretty sure I prefer what she's in compared to the rest of these!

Taking Norah to the Orthopedic on a rainy morning within 2 weeks of birth was a ride! Both of us nervous on the way there while she slept quietly in her carseat. She has been in her "taco brace" as they call it since we left the hospital and it has been an enormous challenge with day to day things. A piece of advice to anyone breastfeeding a child with this condition....get help fast. Do not wait. I spent two weeks of her life battling with her trying to figure out how to feed her. Basic positions didn't work well, my husband had to stay home with me because it was so exhausting and emotional, I just couldnt go it alone. When anyone would ask, "Why is it so hard?", I found myself busting at the seams thinking, "Seriously?, you have to ask?" People have well-meaning intentions, I just couldn't handle anything at that point. With that said, I had to nurse her in the doctor's office that day. Fun. So this appointment began the 8 week trial of the brace. We would find out later if she had to wear it longer. The purpose of the taco brace is to keep her hips open and in better alignment while the socket and ligaments become more stable. It is supposed to encourage development of the hip joint. A superior hip is very necessary for her future leg lengthening procedures. The doctor did state that he thought her hip damage was minimal and that the prognosis looked pretty good. Some children then go to wearing it part time for another 4-6 weeks after the initial time, but we are hoping this step will be eliminated if possible.