Hip dislocation

Overview

Motor vehicle accidents are a common cause of hip dislocation. The head of the thighbone is forced either backward or forward out of its socket in the hipbone. Once a hip is dislocated, chances increase that it will happen again.

Symptoms

The hip may be swollen and painful and look out of place. The leg may be hard to move. The foot or ankle might feel tingly or numb.

Treatments

Treatment is needed right away. It may include pushing the bone in place by hand or with surgery. Surgery to repair other damage, limiting motion and not putting weight on the leg, medicine, and physical therapy also might be needed.