Hip ligament injury

If you suffer from hip pain due to a sprain or tear, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What is a hip ligament injury?

Hip ligament injury: Commonly called a hip sprain and can range from minor tears of the ligaments to more serious injuries involving the hip muscles, tendons or bone.

The hip joint is a ball and socket joint; the ball being the head of the femur (thigh bone) and the socket is the acetabulum of the pelvis. Tendons, muscles, and ligaments hold the joint in place.

The ligaments of the hip include:

• Iliofemoral Ligament: Attaches the femur to the pelvis at the front side
• Pubofemoral Ligament: Attaches the pubis (a pair of pelvic bones) to the femur
• Ischiofemoral Ligament: Attaches the femur to the pelvis at the lower end

What causes a hip ligament injury?

Injuries to hip ligaments often occur due to:

• A trauma
• A blow or fall over the hip
• Over-stretching of the hip

What are the symptoms of a hip ligament injury?

Some people hear a’pop’ sound at the time of injury. Other symptoms include:

• Pain and bruising around the hip
• Inability to bear weight on the affected hip joint
• Poor movement of the joint

What are the treatments for a hip ligament injury? 

Some hip ligament injuries can be treated at home. At-home treatments include:

• OTC anti-inflammtory medicationslike Ibuprofen or Aleve
• RICE method
  • Rest: Avoid activities that may intensify pain and discomfort. 
  • Ice: Ice packs applied to the injury will help reduce swelling and pain. Ice should be applied over a towel to the affected area for 15-20 minutes, 4 times a day for several days. Never place ice directly on the skin.
  • Compression: Wrapping with an elastic bandage can help minimise the swelling and support the hip.
  • Elevation: Elevating your leg above heart level will also help reduce swelling and pain. 

If your hip still feels painful after a few days and shows no signs of improvement, it may be necessary to see a doctor for treatment. Your doctor may do one or all of the following treatments:

• Prescribe stronger pain medications like Muscle relaxers to help you manage the pain and reduce inflammation
• Send you to a physical therapist to enhance your flexibility, range of motion and strength. 

Surgery is recommended if you do not respond to non-surgical treatment options.