A hip dislocation is a painful and serious injury that requires immediate emergency treatment. After the joint has been returned to its proper position, ongoing orthopedic care may be needed to evaluate associated injuries, persistent pain, joint stability, and recovery. Dr. Brian Cohen is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with more than 20 years of experience, over 30,000 orthopedic surgical procedures performed, and more than 100,000 patient evaluations. He provides personalized follow-up care for patients recovering from hip dislocation and related joint damage.
Hip Dislocation Overview
A hip dislocation occurs when the ball of the hip joint, called the femoral head, is forced out of the socket. Because the hip is a strong and stable joint, significant force is usually required to dislocate it.
This injury causes severe pain and may occur with fractures, nerve damage, blood vessel injuries, or other trauma. A suspected hip dislocation is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment to reduce the risk of long-term joint damage and other complications.
Types Of Hip Dislocation
When a hip dislocates, the femoral head may be pushed backward or forward out of the socket.
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Posterior hip dislocation: The femoral head is pushed backward out of the socket. The hip and knee are often bent, with the leg rotated inward toward the middle of the body. This is the most common type of hip dislocation.
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Anterior hip dislocation: The femoral head moves forward out of the socket. The hip may be slightly bent, with the leg rotated outward.
The direction of the dislocation helps guide emergency treatment and evaluation for associated injuries.
Hip Dislocation Diagnosis
The position and appearance of the leg may strongly suggest a hip dislocation, but a complete evaluation is necessary because other injuries often occur simultaneously.
The emergency assessment may include:
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A physical examination
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Evaluation of circulation and nerve function
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X-rays of the hip and pelvis
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A CT scan when more detail about fractures or joint alignment is needed
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An MRI when soft-tissue, cartilage, or other joint damage requires further evaluation
Imaging may also be repeated after reduction to confirm that the femoral head is properly positioned in the socket.
Dislocated Hip Causes and Risk Factors
Hip dislocations are most commonly associated with high-energy trauma. During a motor vehicle collision, the injury may occur when the knee strikes the dashboard, and the force drives the femoral head backward out of the socket. Wearing a seat belt can reduce the risk of serious hip and pelvic injuries during a collision.
Other possible causes include:
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High-impact falls
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Football or rugby injuries
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Downhill skiing accidents
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Snowboarding accidents
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Other forceful contact or twisting injuries
Some patients may also be at greater risk of dislocation after previous hip surgery or joint replacement.
Hip Dislocation Symptoms
A hip dislocation usually causes immediate and severe symptoms, including:
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Intense hip or groin pain
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Visible deformity or an unusual leg position
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Muscle spasms
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Inability to move the hip
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Inability to stand or place weight on the affected leg
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Numbness, tingling, or weakness if a nerve is affected
Anyone with signs of a hip dislocation should seek emergency medical care immediately and should not attempt to move or reposition the joint.
Hip Dislocation Treatment Options
Treatment begins by returning the femoral head to the hip socket in a controlled medical setting, such as an emergency room or operating room. This procedure is called a reduction and may be performed with sedation or anesthesia.
In many cases, the joint can be repositioned without an incision. This is known as a closed reduction. Imaging is typically performed afterward to confirm alignment and check for fractures or other joint damage.
Open surgery may be necessary when bone fragments, torn soft tissue, or associated injuries prevent the hip from returning to its proper position. During an open reduction, the surgeon removes or repairs the obstructing tissue and restores the joint alignment.
After reduction, physical therapy and rehabilitation may be recommended to rebuild strength, restore motion, and support a safe return to normal activity.
Follow-Up Care After Hip Reduction
Orthopedic follow-up may be needed after a hip reduction to monitor healing and identify complications. Dr. Cohen may evaluate joint stability, persistent pain, range of motion, nerve symptoms, fractures, cartilage damage, or signs of affected blood supply to the femoral head.
The follow-up plan may include activity restrictions, assistive devices, repeat imaging, medication, and physical therapy. Recommendations depend on the severity of the original injury and any associated damage.
Why Choose Dr. Cohen?
OVER 25+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
One of the first orthopedic surgeons employed by a large hospital. Dr. Cohen spent 20 years.
TRUSTED BY OVER 100,000+ PATIENTS WORLDWIDE
Over his distinguished career, Dr. Cohen has cultivated a reputation of excellence and trust among his patients and his peers.
UTILIZING THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY
To achieve the best surgical outcomes, Dr. Cohen uses the most advanced technologies and techniques, keeping his practice state-of-the-art.
PATIENT SAFETY IS TOP PRIORITY
An individualized, patient-focused process coupled with decades of training and experience helps ensure maximum safety for all of Dr. Cohen’s patients.
Hip Dislocation Care In Chillicothe, OH
A suspected hip dislocation requires immediate treatment in an emergency room and should not be delayed until a routine office appointment. After the joint has been reduced, persistent pain, limited motion, or associated injuries may require orthopedic follow-up. Dr. Cohen provides personalized evaluation and recovery planning for patients healing from serious hip injuries. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Brian Cohen for follow-up care, call (614) 788-0375.
