Susquehanna Health: Advanced Care for a Dislocated Hip

A hip dislocation happens when the head of the thighbone is moved out of the hip bone socket. In most cases, this is caused by some type of traumatic force, such as an auto accident or a fall. A dislocated hip is a serious medical emergency and requires immediate treatment.

If you’ve experienced a dislocated hip in Williamsport, Lock Haven, Wellsboro, or Muncy, PA, orthopedic doctors at UPMC provide comprehensive treatment to help you get back to normal activities with less discomfort. 

Dislocated Hip Symptoms

Hip dislocations are very painful. If your hip is out of place, you won’t be able to move your leg. If you have nerve damage, you may not have any feeling in your foot or ankle area.

Dislocated Hip Causes

The most common cause of a dislocated hip is a motor vehicle collision, often occurring when the knee hits the dashboard (driving the thigh backwards and pushing the ball head of the femur out of socket). Falling from a great height, such as off a ladder, can also cause a hip dislocation.

Dislocated Hip Treatment at UPMC 

At UPMC, our orthopedic doctors offer the latest treatments for hip dislocation. This may include a process called reduction, whereby your doctor gently maneuvers your hip joint back into the proper position. Depending on the level of pain and swelling you have, you may be given local or general anesthesia.

Once your bone has been moved back into place, your doctor may immobilize your hip joint with a brace or cast for several weeks to aid the recovery process.

In some cases, surgery may be necessary if your doctor can’t move your dislocated hip back into position, or if nearby blood vessels, nerves or ligaments have been damaged.

Once your brace or cast has been removed, you’ll likely have rehabilitation in order to restore range of motion and strength in your hip joint.