HIP SPRAIN

ABOUT HIP SPRAINS

The ligaments in the hip connect the thigh bone to the pelvis. When one or more of these ligaments is pulled or stretched too far, we call it a sprain. This overstretched ligament may be damaged such as tiny tears as a result. A similar injury is a hip strain where a muscle is stretched and damaged, such as a hip flexor strain. We can treat hip sprains in Sheffield, Rotherham, Doncaster and Worksop.

Sprains and strains in the hip are usually caused by a sudden twisting movement. This can be from a fall or as a result of a car accident. Hip sprains are also common for sportspeople when they have to make a sudden change of direction. But can also occur if the joint wasn’t warmed up properly before exercising. You are more likely to strain your hip if you have previously had a hip strain.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF A HIP SPRAIN?

A hip sprain is painful and will probably affect your ability to walk. Other symptoms include:

• Sharp pain at the top of the hip

• Hurts to walk or run or lift your thigh

• Stiffness or cramping in the leg

• Bruising around the hip or top of the thigh

• Walking with a limp

• Swelling at the hip joint

Because so much of our movement comes from our hips, a hip strain can be felt in other parts of the body including the abdomen, back and thighs.

WHAT TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE?

Sprains should be rested and ice should be used in the first 48 hours. This will help prevent further damage and help reduce any swelling. For a mild sprain, you can use the RICE principle to treat yourself at home:

• R – Rest: try an keep off your ankle for the first 48 hours

• I – Ice: apply an ice pack to reduce swelling

• C – Compression: Use a compression bandage to help prevent swelling

• E – Elevation: raising your ankle to level with your heart also helping reduce swelling

If your hip sprain is more severe, other treatment options include:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – painkillers that help reduce any inflammation.

• Physiotherapy – strengthening and stretching exercises that keep the hip mobile and flexible.

• Heat therapy and plasma-rich protein therapy can also be used to promote healing.

• Crutches or similar aid – to help you walk whilst you rest your hip.

Mild to moderate hip sprains should get better within two to eight weeks. More severe sprains will take longer and require more rehabilitation. However, if your hip sprain doesn’t get better through non-invasive treatments, surgery might be an option. Surgery may be required to assess the damage and/or repair and ruptured tissues. Book an appointment to treat hip sprains in Sheffield, Rotherham, Doncaster or Worksop. You can also follow us on social media.