Definition:

Joint dislocation of the hip is a common injury to the hip joint. Dislocation occurs when the ball–shaped head of the femur comes out of the cup–shaped acetabulum set in the pelvis. This may happen to a varying degree. A dislocated hip, much more common in females than in males, is a condition that can either be congenital or acquired. Understanding the epidemiology, anatomy, difference between congenital and acquired, screening, treatments, and rehabilitation are all relevant to the topic.

Symptoms:

• Severe pain in the hip, especially when attempting to move the leg
• Leg on the affected side appears shorter than the other leg
• Hip joint appears deformed
• Pain or numbness along the sciatic nerve area (back of thighs) if injury presses on this nerve

Causes:

• Severe falls, especially from heights
• Motor vehicle accidents
• Sports injuries

Treatment:

• Possible surgical intervention
• ROM and stretching exercises
• Core stabilization exercises
• Lower extremity strengthening exercises