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Hip Pointer Symptoms

A hip pointer occurs when the hip receives direct impact at the iliac crest, a bone which sits high on the pelvis. Seen primarily in contact sports such as football and hockey, hip pointers vary in severity and level of pain the individual endures while the hip pointer heals. A doctor or qualified healthcare provider should be seen if a hip pointer is suspected so he can examine for a more serious injury such as internal bleeding or a fracture. Based on the final diagnosis, the hip pointer is categorized as mild, moderate or severe, which helps in developing a treatment plan for the affected individual.

  1. Bruising and Swelling

    • Based on the severity of the hip pointer, mild to extreme bruising and possible swelling at the hip indicate a possible hip pointer. A mild hip pointer generally presents only minor bruising and swelling, while moderate and severe hip pointers typically present a larger area of bruising and swelling. The increased bruising and swelling in moderate and severe hip pointers could also indicate muscles were torn due to a stronger amount of force on the hip.

    Pain

    • Pain in the hip region is a common indicator of a hip pointer. The level of pain varies by the severity of the hip pointer and may intensify when attempting to walk or run. The length of time pain persists varies based on the severity of the hip pointer.

    Limited Mobility and Reduced Range of Motion

    • With moderate and severe hip pointers, common symptoms generally include a reduced range of motion and limited mobility in the hip and abdominal region on the side of the body the hip pointer is located. If the level of pain, limited mobility and reduced range of motion prove a challenge in allowing the patient to walk, the use of crutches is generally prescribed as part of the part of the treatment plan until no longer needed.

    Treatment for a Hip Pointer

    • Recovery time for a hip pointer varies according to the severity of the injury; a doctor can be more exact in predicting the length of recovery based on a full diagnosis. Treatments include icing the hip, resting the hip and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). For a severe hip pointer, a steroid injection to the hip might be prescribed to reduce pain, as well as physical therapy to regain full range of motion and mobility.

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