When a hip is dislocated, it means that the ball of the hip joint is forced out of the socket. Since the hip joint is the largest weight-bearing joint in the human body, it generally takes a high amount of force for the hip to become dislocated. A dislocated hip is a medical emergency, meaning that it requires immediate care.
Symptoms of a Dislocated Hip
A dislocated hip can cause a range of symptoms. However, the main symptoms include pain and swelling in the affected hip.
Pain and Swelling
When the ball of the hip joint is pushed out of the socket, it can damage the soft tissues that keep the joint secure, including muscles, ligaments, nerves, and the labrum. This tissue damage is what causes pain and inflammation after a hip dislocation.
Hip Weakness
In addition to pain and swelling, a dislocated hip will generally cause weakness. You likely won’t be able to stand or bear weight on the hip if it’s dislocated. Some people also experience numbness on the side of the body with the dislocated hip, which occurs if a nerve is compressed due to the dislocation.
Visible Deformity
After a hip dislocation, the hip may be visibly deformed. You may be able to see that the ball of the hip bone is out of the socket.
Muscle Spasms
In some cases, a hip dislocation can cause muscle spasms around the affected hip.
Treatment for a Dislocated Hip
If you’ve dislocated your hip, you can visit an orthopaedic surgeon like Dr. Higgins for a diagnosis. Other injuries of the hip, such as a fracture, often occur with a dislocated hip, so imaging tests may be required. Your doctor may then manipulate the hip bones back into place. In some cases, surgery may be needed to fully restore the position of the hip bones.
At Hernando Orthopaedic & Spinal Surgery, we offer a range of treatments for injuries, including a dislocated hip. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!