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.

Orthopedic Surgery Education American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Arthroscopy Association of North America American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine Arthrex OrthoIllustrated Miami Institute For Joint Reconstruction