Dislocated Hip
A hip dislocation is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment. Prompt reduction and proper follow-up care are essential for optimal recovery.
This is a Medical Emergency
If you suspect a hip dislocation, call 911 immediately. Do not attempt to move the injured person. Time is critical to prevent complications.
What is a Hip Dislocation?
A hip dislocation occurs when the ball of the thighbone (femoral head) is forced out of its socket in the pelvis. This typically requires significant force and is often associated with other injuries.
Most hip dislocations are posterior (the ball is pushed backward), but anterior dislocations (forward) can also occur. The position of the leg after injury often indicates the type of dislocation.
Immediate treatment is essential to reduce the risk of complications, particularly avascular necrosis (death of bone tissue due to disrupted blood supply).
Symptoms
- Severe, immediate hip pain
- Inability to move the leg
- Leg appears shorter on the affected side
- Hip and knee are bent and rotated inward (posterior) or outward (anterior)
- Numbness or tingling in the foot or ankle
- Visible deformity of the hip
Causes
Motor Vehicle Accidents
The most common cause, especially from dashboard impact
Falls from Height
High-impact falls can force the hip out of socket
Sports Injuries
Contact sports with high-velocity collisions
Industrial Accidents
Workplace trauma with significant force
Treatment
Closed Reduction
Most hip dislocations are treated with closed reduction under sedation or anesthesia. The doctor manipulates the leg to guide the ball back into the socket. This should be done within 6 hours to minimize risk of avascular necrosis.
Surgery
Surgery may be required if closed reduction fails, if there are associated fractures, or if bone fragments are blocking reduction. Surgery may also be needed to repair damaged ligaments or remove loose bodies from the joint.
Rehabilitation
After reduction, the hip needs time to heal. This typically involves a period of limited weight-bearing followed by physical therapy to restore strength and range of motion. Full recovery may take several months.
Potential Complications
- Avascular necrosis (bone death from disrupted blood supply)
- Sciatic nerve injury causing leg weakness or numbness
- Post-traumatic arthritis
- Recurrent dislocations if hip becomes unstable
Prompt treatment and proper follow-up care are essential to minimize the risk of these complications.
Related Conditions
Expert trauma care for hip injuries
If you’ve experienced a hip dislocation and need follow-up care, schedule a consultation with Dr. Hunter.