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Hip pointer

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

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Hip Pointer

  • hip pointer refers to a contusion of the iliac crest
    • also been used to describe avulsions or fractures about the lateral hip
      • direct impact can cause an avulsion fracture where a portion of bone is removed by a muscle
    • pain is due to the cluneal nerve that runs right along the iliac crest
    • hip pointer haematoma usually causes bleeding into the hip abductor muscles
      • bleeding into muscle tissue creates swelling and makes leg movement painful
    • a full assessment should be undertaken to rule out the possibility of damage to abdominal organs

  • radiographs are often necessary to rule out boney injury

  • treatment is often symptomatic, including ice, compression, rest, and potentially protected ambulation
    • avoiding vigorous activity for 48 hours may reduce recurrent bleeding
    • corticosteroid injection may help facilitate a return to activity
    • injury usually lasts from one to six weeks, depending on the damage
      • in most cases, patients recover completely

Reference:

  • Grumet RC et al. Lateral Hip Pain in an Athletic Population: Differential Diagnosis and Treatment Options.Sports Health 2010; 2(3): 191-6.

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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