A hip that is “out” means the ball-shaped head of the thighbone (femur) has separated from its cup-shaped socket in the pelvis (acetabulum). This can be a full dislocation or a partial one, known as subluxation. Recognizing the signs of this injury is important due to potential complications and the need for immediate medical attention.
Identifying Key Symptoms
Acute, severe pain in the hip or groin is a primary symptom of a hip dislocation or subluxation. This pain often makes any movement of the affected leg impossible, and individuals cannot bear weight on the injured leg.
A visible deformity of the hip or leg is also common. The affected leg may appear shorter and can be rotated inward or outward. Muscle spasms around the thigh and buttocks can occur, making movement difficult. Swelling and bruising around the hip joint may also develop. Nerve compression can lead to numbness or tingling sensations in the leg or foot.
Understanding How Hips Become Displaced
Dislocating the hip joint usually requires significant force, as it is stable due to its deep socket and strong ligaments. High-impact traumatic events are the most frequent causes. Motor vehicle accidents, especially those where the knee strikes the dashboard, can force the thighbone backward out of its socket.
Falls from heights or industrial accidents can also cause a hip dislocation. Sports injuries, particularly in contact sports like football or hockey, can also lead to this injury. Pre-existing conditions can make a hip more susceptible to displacement. For example, individuals with hip dysplasia, where the hip socket is shallow, may experience dislocation with less force. Those who have undergone total hip replacement surgery are also at an increased risk.
Urgent Medical Considerations
A hip dislocation is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention. Prompt treatment prevents long-term complications, such as damage to surrounding blood vessels, nerves, or soft tissues. The sciatic nerve, for example, can be stretched or compressed, potentially causing weakness or loss of sensation.
The blood supply to the thighbone head can also be disrupted, leading to osteonecrosis, a condition where bone tissue dies from lack of blood flow. If a hip dislocation is suspected, call emergency services immediately. Do not attempt to move the injured person or try to reset the hip yourself, as this could worsen the injury. Keep the person still and calm, and cover them with a blanket until medical professionals arrive.
Professional Assessment and Care
Healthcare providers will conduct a physical examination to assess the leg’s position and any associated injuries. Imaging tests confirm a hip dislocation and identify additional damage. X-rays are often the first step to visualize the dislocated joint and check for fractures. A computed tomography (CT) scan may also provide more detailed images, especially to rule out bone fragments or hip socket fractures.
Initial management includes pain control and muscle spasm relief. The main treatment for a dislocated hip is reduction, where the thighbone is moved back into its socket. This “closed reduction” is typically performed under sedation or general anesthesia. If complex fractures or other issues prevent successful closed reduction, surgery may be necessary to realign the joint and repair damaged structures. After reduction, follow-up imaging confirms the hip is properly seated.