What is the primary goal of using a Pavlik harness in infants?

The use of a Pavlik harness in infants is primarily aimed at correcting hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint does not properly form in babies and young children. The harness works by positioning the baby's hips in a way that encourages proper alignment and development of the hip joint. By keeping the hips in a flexed and abducted position, the Pavlik harness promotes optimal growth of the femoral head within the acetabulum, thus facilitating the natural development of the hip joint.

This treatment is crucial in the early stages, as it can prevent more severe complications later in life, such as hip dislocation or arthritis. The effectiveness of the harness in addressing hip dysplasia lies in its ability to maintain the correct positioning without restricting the blood supply to the hips, allowing for both stabilization and proper development of the joint.

Other options, while relevant in different contexts, do not apply to the primary purpose of the Pavlik harness. Stabilizing the spine, improving circulation, or enhancing mobility do not directly relate to the management of hip dysplasia, thereby underscoring why the primary goal of using the harness specifically targets the correction of this condition.