Hip dislocation: From causes to recovery
A hip dislocation is every bit as painful as it sounds. While you never want to suffer this type of injury, it could happen as the result of a variety of accidents.
For example, motor vehicle accidents are among the most common cause of this injury. Hip dislocations typically happen when your knee strikes the dashboard, thus thrusting your thigh backward.
A fall from height, such as off of scaffolding or a ladder, is another common cause of hip dislocations. Depending on the height and position in which you fall, it could generate enough force to cause dislocation or other traumatic injuries.
If you have any reason to believe you have suffered a hip dislocation, you should never attempt to move. You need to receive immediate medical attention, as this can help you avoid additional medical complications.
While not always the case, a hip dislocation can take several months to heal. Also, if there are other injuries present, it can take even longer to get back on your feet. Additionally, most people who suffer hip dislocations require extensive physical therapy.
Patients are often able to walk shortly after suffering a hip dislocation, as long as they use crutches or a walker.
Suffering a hip dislocation on the job could make you eligible to receive workers’ compensation benefits. Since you are likely to be out of work for an extended period of time after this type of serious injury, this may be something you want to investigate. The money you receive during your recovery will allow you to focus on your health, as opposed to worrying about your finances.
Source: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, “Hip Dislocation,” accessed Dec. 18, 2017