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Hip Pointers

Hip Pointers

What are Hip Pointers?

The hip joint consists of 2 bones, the hip bone and the leg bone. An injury or bruise to one of these bones or the surrounding muscles or tissues is termed a hip pointer. This type of injury is mainly caused due to a sudden blow or hit on the hip which can occur from sports activities such as football, rugby, volleyball, basketball, cycling or skating.

Symptoms of Hip Pointers

The main symptoms of a hip pointer include:

  • Bruising and swelling in the injured area
  • Severe pain and tenderness during movement
  • Difficulty in movement of the hip joint
  • Weakness of the hip and legs

Diagnosis of Hip Pointers

This condition can be diagnosed through a physical examination of your hip joint and performing imaging tests such as X-rays and MRI to confirm the diagnosis and determine the exact position of the injury.

Treatments for Hip Pointers

A hip pointer can be treated by rest, using ice packs immediately after the injury to reduce pain and inflammation, bandages to reduce the swelling, and by elevating your hip using a pillow. Your doctor may prescribe NSAIDs to help with the pain and inflammation. You may return to sports slowly following resolution of the injury.

© Volkan B Guzel, Orthopaedic Surgeon, Katy, TX
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