Hip Injuries

Hip Fracture

A hip fracture is a break in the upper quarter of the femur (thigh) bone. The extent of the break depends on the forces that are involved. The type of surgery used to treat a hip fracture is primarily based on the bones and soft tissues affected or on the level of the fracture.

Hip Dislocation

A hip dislocation occurs when the head of the thighbone (femur) slips out of its socket in the hip bone (pelvis). In approximately 90% of patients, the thighbone is pushed out of its socket in a backwards direction (posterior dislocation). This leaves the hip in a fixed position, bent and twisted in toward the middle of the body. The thighbone can also slip out of its socket in a forward direction (anterior dislocation). If this occurs, the hip will be bent only slightly, and the leg will twist out and away from the middle of the body.   A hip dislocation is very painful. Patients are unable to move the leg and, if there is nerve damage, may not have any feeling in the foot or ankle area.  The most common cause of hip dislocation is motor vehicle accidents.  Falls from a height (such as a ladder) or industrial accidents can also generate enough force to dislocate a hip.  A hip dislocation is an orthopeaedic emergency.  Call for help immediately.  Do not try to move the injured person, but keep him or her warm with blankets.  With hip dislocations, there are often other injuries including fractures, back or head injuries. Rehabilitation following dislocation can sometimes take two to three months, and perhaps longer if there are additional fractures.  Traction may be recommended for a short time, followed by controlled exercises.   Crutches or a cane will be recommended until the limp disappears.

Hip Strain

The large bones that make up the hip joint also serve as anchors for several muscles. Some of these muscles move down the thigh to the knee.Other muscles move across the abdomen or the buttocks. When overuse or injury stretches or tears the muscle fibers, the resulting injury is called a strain.  This can be caused by a fall or blow to the muscle, overstretching or overuse.   In general, treatment and rehabilitation are designed to relieve pain, restore range of motion and restore strength.  RICE is the standard treatment for mild to moderate muscle strains:   Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation.  Your doctor may also recommend aspirin or ibuprofen to reduce swelling and ease pain.