As a leading Long Island orthopedist, we’re no strangers to hip-related questions and concerns. One of the most common complaints we hear from patients is hip pain — whether it’s swelling, aches, stiffness, or the feeling that something is just “off.” If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it could be a sign of a hip dislocation.
At Central Orthopedic Group, we take hip health seriously. In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about hip dislocations, including causes, symptoms, treatment options, and recovery tips. Keep reading to learn more — especially if you suspect your hip pain may be more serious than just a strain or sprain.
What is a Dislocated Hip?
A hip dislocation occurs when the head of the femur (thighbone) is pushed or pulled out of the socket in your pelvis, also known as the acetabulum. This is a ball-and-socket joint, designed for strength and flexibility — but it’s not immune to trauma. When dislocation occurs, the hip joint is no longer aligned, which can damage nearby nerves, muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissue.
What Causes a Dislocated Hip?
While the hip joint is incredibly strong and stable, it can still be forced out of alignment under extreme conditions. Some of the most common causes of hip dislocations on Long Island include:
- Car Accidents: Frontal collisions can force the knee into the dashboard, driving the femur out of the hip socket.
- Falls from a Height: Falls from ladders, rooftops, or stairs can result in dislocations, especially among older adults.
- Sports Injuries: Contact sports such as football, hockey, and wrestling can lead to hip trauma from impact or awkward falls.
- Underlying Conditions: Structural abnormalities like hip dysplasia may increase the risk of dislocation even during low-impact movements.
Common Symptoms of a Dislocated Hip
A dislocated hip usually results in immediate, intense pain. Here are the most common symptoms Long Island patients report:
- Severe hip or groin pain
- Inability to move the leg or walk
- The leg appears shorter or rotated
- Swelling and bruising around the hip joint
- Numbness or tingling in the foot or ankle (suggesting nerve involvement)
- Warmth or inflammation in the area
- Difficulty sleeping on the affected side
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms following a fall, sports injury, or accident, seek medical care immediately.
Diagnosis & Assessment
Diagnosing a dislocated hip starts with a physical examination and detailed medical history. Your orthopedist will likely order imaging tests like:
- X-rays – to confirm the dislocation and its direction
- CT scans or MRIs – to evaluate the condition of nearby muscles, ligaments, and nerves
Early diagnosis is essential for minimizing long-term damage and ensuring proper healing.
Treatment Options for Hip Dislocation
Closed Reduction
In many cases, a dislocated hip can be corrected through a closed reduction, a non-surgical procedure in which the orthopedic specialist gently repositions the hip bone back into the socket under sedation. This method is typically used when there are no fractures or significant soft tissue injuries.
Hip Arthroscopy
If the dislocation causes or is accompanied by soft tissue damage, torn cartilage, or ligament injuries, your Long Island orthopedic surgeon may recommend hip arthroscopy. This minimally invasive procedure uses small instruments and a camera to assess and repair internal damage.
Surgical Options
In severe or recurring cases, especially in patients with existing hip conditions, surgery or even a total hip replacement may be necessary to restore proper function and prevent future dislocations.
Healing & Recovery
Recovery time can vary based on the severity of the injury and the patient’s overall health. Generally:
- Non-surgical recovery may take 6–12 weeks.
- Recovery after surgery may take 3–6 months.
During this period, patients are often advised to use crutches, walkers, or canes to avoid placing weight on the hip. Physical therapy is crucial for regaining strength and mobility, and avoiding complications like arthritis or stiffness.
Your orthopedic specialist may also recommend lifestyle modifications or home safety improvements — especially important for our Long Island seniors — to prevent re-injury.
When to Visit a Long Island Orthopedist
If you’ve recently been in a car accident, fallen, or sustained a sports injury and are now experiencing intense hip pain, don’t delay seeking professional care. The sooner you’re evaluated, the better your chances for a full and successful recovery.
At Central Orthopedic Group, we proudly serve patients across Plainview, Rockville Centre, and Massapequa with comprehensive, compassionate orthopedic care. Our experienced team specializes in diagnosing and treating complex hip injuries with both surgical and non-surgical solutions tailored to your needs.
Conclusion
A dislocated hip is more than just a painful inconvenience — it’s a serious orthopedic injury that requires prompt and expert care. Whether you’ve experienced a recent trauma or you’re struggling with chronic hip instability, the orthopedic specialists at Central Orthopedic Group are here to help.
Don’t wait to address your hip pain. Schedule an appointment today with one of our Long Island orthopedic doctors and take the first step toward relief and recovery.