The hip joint is one of the most secure joints in the body, but in severe circumstances, even the hip can become dislocated. It’s considered a medical emergency that requires immediate attention when this happens. It can also become dislocated temporarily, which is known as a subluxation.

Hip dislocation and subluxation involve the hip joint’s displacement, which connects the thigh bone (femur) to the pelvis. The hip is a ball-and-socket joint, and when the ball (head of the femur) moves out of the socket (acetabulum), it results in a dislocation. 

In subluxation, the ball partially shifts out of the socket but does not fully dislocate. Both conditions can cause significant pain, limited mobility, and other complications.

Because of how much force is required to bump a hip out of socket, hip dislocation and subluxation are most often caused by significant trauma or injury, but not always. 

Common causes of hip dislocation or subluxation include:

• Trauma or Accidents: Motor vehicle accidents, falls, or sports injuries can forcefully impact the hip, causing dislocation or subluxation.
• Congenital Hip Dysplasia: Some people are born with a hip socket that is too shallow, making them more prone to dislocations or subluxations.
• Hip Surgery: Surgical procedures, particularly those involving joint replacement or corrective surgeries, can lead to hip instability or dislocation, especially if the joint is not properly aligned after surgery.
• Neurological Conditions: Conditions such as cerebral palsy, stroke, or spina bifida can lead to abnormal muscle function around the hip, increasing the risk of dislocation or subluxation.
• Arthritis: Degenerative joint diseases, including osteoarthritis, can weaken the structures around the hip joint, increasing the likelihood of dislocation.

To diagnose a hip dislocation or subluxation, your doctor will conduct a thorough evaluation, which typically includes:

• Physical Examination: Your doctor will assess your hip for tenderness, range of motion, and visible deformities. They may also check for signs of nerve damage, such as changes in sensation.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays are the primary imaging tool to confirm dislocation or subluxation. However, an MRI or CT scan may be needed to assess damage to surrounding tissues, such as cartilage, ligaments, or muscles.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Despite the pain and severity of a dislocated hip, surgery is not always necessary to repair it. Non-surgical treatments for a hip dislocation or subluxation include:

• Reduction: For a dislocation, the first step is to perform a procedure called “reduction,” in which the doctor manually repositions the femoral head back into the hip socket. This is often done under anesthesia to minimize pain.
• Rest and Ice: Resting the joint and applying ice can help reduce swelling and pain after a dislocation or subluxation.
• Pain Management: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or prescription pain medications may be used to manage pain and inflammation during recovery.
• Physical Therapy: Once the hip is aligned correctly, physical therapy exercises will be recommended to strengthen the muscles around the hip joint, improve flexibility, and restore range of motion.

Surgical Treatments

If conservative treatments fail to reduce the hip, surgery may be the best option to restore the joint, relieve pain, and get the patient back on their feet. The two types of surgery typically performed to fix a dislocation are the following:

• Arthroscopy: In some cases, surgery may be required to repair damage to the hip joint or surrounding structures, such as the labrum, ligaments, or cartilage. Arthroscopic surgery involves small incisions and a camera to guide the procedure.
• Hip Replacement Surgery: If the hip joint is severely damaged or if dislocations are recurrent and unresponsive to conservative treatment, hip replacement surgery may be considered to provide long-term stability and pain relief.

Depending on the treatment required, whether non-surgical or surgical, the recovery period can vary, as can the amount of rehabilitation required to get back to regular mobility, pain-free.

Following a reduction or non-surgical procedure, for instance, you may be advised to use crutches or a brace to avoid putting weight on the hip while it heals. You will likely experience some pain and swelling, but these should improve over time.

Recovery from surgery can take time. Arthroscopic surgery often requires a shorter recovery period, while hip replacement surgery may take several months to heal completely. Physical therapy is essential in both cases for recovering and improving joint function.

Hip dislocation or subluxation can cause significant pain and mobility issues, but with the proper treatment, most people can recover fully and regain function.

Schedule an appointment today to discuss your treatment options with our expert team. We are here to help you return to an active, pain-free life as safely and quickly as possible.  Please go to the emergency room if you suspect a hip injury as severe as a dislocation.

Can hip dislocation or subluxation heal on its own?
No, hip dislocation or subluxation typically requires medical treatment to prevent complications. The joint may not heal correctly without proper care, leading to ongoing pain, stiffness, or instability.

How can I prevent hip dislocation or subluxation?
Preventing hip injuries involves maintaining strong muscles around the joint, using proper techniques during physical activities, and wearing protective gear for high-impact sports. If you have conditions like arthritis or congenital hip dysplasia, regular monitoring by your doctor can help reduce risks.

Are there long-term effects of hip dislocation?
Yes, untreated or severe hip dislocations can cause long-term issues, such as chronic pain, stiffness, or arthritis in the joint. Early treatment and rehabilitation are key to reducing these risks.

What activities should I avoid during recovery?
During recovery, avoid activities that stress the hip, such as running, heavy lifting, or twisting motions. Your doctor or physical therapist will provide a tailored list of restrictions based on your condition.

When should I seek medical attention for hip pain?
Seek medical attention if you experience sudden, severe hip pain, difficulty moving the joint, or if your hip appears deformed after an injury. Early evaluation can help prevent further damage.