How Does a Person Get a Hip Dislocation?

Motor vehicle accidents are the most common cause of hip dislocations

A hip dislocation occurs when the head of the thighbone (femur) slips out of its socket in the hip bone (pelvis). Hip dislocations, though rare, are very painful.

Motor Vehicle Accident

Automobile accidents are the most common cause of hip dislocations. High-speed impact with a dashboard, steering wheel, seat, or other object has the potential to force the head of the femur to pop out of the joint.

Sports

Hip dislocations generally occur from hitting the ground or other object, or when you are from hit by another player.

Fall From Height

Falls from a height, such as off a ladder, also can generate enough force to dislocate a hip.

Congenital Condition

This type of dislocation occurs when the pelvis or femur does not form properly, leaving the hip joint weakened and vulnerable

Forceful Hyperextension

If the entire leg is forced into extension, the head of the femur may slip out of its socket in a forward direction. This is rare, as most dislocations are posterior (backwards) in nature.

References

• American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons
• "Examination of Orthopedic and Athletic Injuries", Chad Starkey, Sara D. Brown, Jeff Ryan; 2009