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Types of Hip Pointers

Those who play contact or extreme sports are probably no strangers to hip pointers. Although often associated with physical sports, hip pointers can occur after a fall or bump where impact is focused on the hip bone. Most hip pointers do not require a doctor's attention, just time to heal; however, some hip pointers prove to be more severe and may even require surgery.

  1. What is a Hip Pointer?

    • A hip pointer is a bruise, fracture or separation of muscle from bone caused by trauma to the iliac crest of the pelvis. This crest is often referred to as the hip bone. The iliac crest, or hip bone, is very near the surface of the skin and is not protected by much muscle. This makes hip pointers a common occurrence when there is impact directly to the mid-side of the body.

    Hip Pointer: Bruise

    • The most common hip pointer is a contusion. This happens when the iliac crest is bruised, and the surrounding area swells in an attempt to protect the hip from any further damage. The iliac crest, since it is bone, takes longer to heal than you would usually expect from bruised muscles. The skin and area around the bruise will tend to discolor and be tender.

    Hip Pointer: Fracture

    • Rarer than bruising, the pelvic bone may be fractured by a severe hip pointer. Symptoms of a fracture are very similar as there is bruising, tenderness and discoloration around the injured area. However, recovery time will increase as the bone will take additional time to heal.

    Hip Pointer: Separation of Muscle and Bone

    • The most severe hip pointer results in a separation of muscle and bone. This is where impact is so great that ligament anchors are torn from the bone. Superficial symptoms are similar to bruising and fracturing, but surgical treatment is required to reattach ligaments for complete recovery.

    Recovery

    • Excluding the final type of hip pointer (separation of muscle and bone), most are easily self-treated. Do this by resting the area. Ice the area practicing safe icing techniques (10 to 15 minutes of ice, then removing the ice for at least 20 minutes). And finally, compress and elevate the area. This will alleviate swelling in your hip and promote quick healing.

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