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— Written By Healthgrades Editorial Staff Updated on October 28, 2022 Hip dislocation, or hip subluxation, happens when the ball portion of the hip joint is dislodged from its socket. This can occur when trauma forces the hip out of place. The ball of the hip is a bony part at the top of the thigh bone. It fits snugly into a socket within the pelvis. Usually, the ball rotates smoothly inside the socket. This allows you to bend your legs, walk, and perform other movements. When the ball dislocates to the rear, this is called a posterior hip dislocation. This type accounts for around 90% of all hip dislocations, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. Anterior hip dislocation occurs when the ball dislocates in a forward position. Hip dislocation can be extremely painful and requires immediate medical treatment. If not addressed quickly, it can lead to serious complications, including nerve damage and bone loss within the joint. Read on to find out more about hip dislocation. This article includes information about the symptoms of hip dislocation, treatments, causes, and more. What are the symptoms of hip dislocation?
Symptoms of a partially dislocated hip may be more subtle than those of a complete dislocation. When a hip joint is out of place, symptoms usually include:
What are the treatments for hip dislocation?Hip dislocation treatment aims to restore function to the limb and minimize the risk of serious complications. A simple hip dislocation with no broken bones or other injuries may not require surgery. Instead, an orthopedic doctor can often manually put the hip ball back into the socket. This is known as a hip reduction. To do this, the doctor will first give you medication to numb the pain and help you relax. They will then pull down firmly on the affected leg while rotating the hip back into place. Sometimes, when the ball of the hip is dislodged, it canfracture the socket, or acetabulum. In these cases, an orthopedic surgeon will perform surgery to repair the broken bones. They may also replace the natural hip with an artificial one, depending on the extent of the injury. Learn about hip fractures. What causes hip dislocation?Hip dislocation most commonly occurs as a result of:
A dislocated hip can occur any time the joint is rotated and force is applied. In rare cases, a low-energy impact can cause hip dislocation. This may be more likely in children or in people born with hip dysplasia, or shallow hip socket. Hip dysplasia is also known as congenital hip dislocation. Learn about hip dysplasia. Contact your doctor as soon as you experience symptoms of hip dislocation. Hip reduction should take place no longer than 6 hours after the dislocation to reduce the risk of complications. Hip dislocations often occur in conjunction with high-force trauma. Because of this, you may have other injuries that could be life threatening. Seek immediate medical attention if you or someone you are with has any of these symptoms along with hip dislocation:
Find out about when to see a doctor for hip pain. How do doctors diagnose hip dislocation?Your doctor or orthopedic surgeon may be able to diagnose hip dislocation by looking at the position of your leg. However, if you have experienced trauma, your doctor may wish to test for further injury. Tests they may order include:
These imaging tests can help to show the position of the dislocated hip and any fractures in the hip or femur. What are the complications of hip dislocation?Hip dislocation may result in complications. These can include:
Can I prevent hip dislocation?There are steps that you can take to reduce your risk of hip dislocation. These include always wearing a seatbelt when driving or riding in a vehicle. If you climb or spend time up high for work or during sporting activities, it is important to always use safety equipment. Wearing a harness or other safety gear can help to prevent falls. Other frequently asked questionsHere are some more frequently asked questions about hip dislocation. Can you still walk if your hip is dislocated?You may not be able to walk if you experience hip dislocation. You may be unable to move your leg and may not be able to feel your foot or ankle. How long does hip dislocation take to heal?It can take up to 2–3 months for a hip dislocation to heal following reduction. If you have experienced additional fractures, this healing time may be longer. Talk with your doctor about what to expect during your recovery period. What happens if hip dislocation is left untreated?Without treatment, hip dislocation can lead to complications including nerve injury andosteonecrosis. It is important to seek medical help as soon as you experience hip dislocation to minimize the risk of long-term complications. Can you fix a dislocated hip yourself?You should not try to fix a dislocated hip yourself. If you experience trauma or symptoms of hip dislocation, it is important to seek immediate medical help. This way, an orthopedic surgeon can perform hip reduction as early as possible. SummaryHip location typically occurs as a result of trauma, such as from a fall or a motor vehicle accident. The ball of the joint becomes dislodged from its socket, moving either forward or backward. If you have a dislocated hip, you may not be able to move your leg or feel your foot. You should seek immediate medical help as early as possible to reduce the risk of complications. Your doctor may be able to diagnose hip dislocation with a physical examination. They may then be able to treat the dislocation during the same visit. However, surgery may be required if you have experienced fractures from the trauma. What to do if hip feels out of place?If you feel your hip going out of place several times a week, or if any pain accompanies the popping noise when you crack your hip, you need to see your doctor. Anti-inflammation medication, physical therapy, or chiropractic care may be necessary to treat your hip discomfort.
Can you still walk with a dislocated hip?If your hip is dislocated, you will be unable to walk or move your leg. If you have any nerve damage associated with your injury, your hip or foot may feel numb. Can you pop an unaligned hip back into place at home? No.
What does a misaligned hip feel like?Signs And Symptoms Of Misaligned Hips or Pelvis
Pain in the hip and buttocks area that increases during or after walking. Pain in the hip and low back after standing in place for long periods. Unbalanced walking or gait. Achy feeling in the lower back or hip while laying down.
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I think my hip is out of place
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