Hip Sprain
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
AMBULATORY CARE:
A hip sprain
happens when a ligament in your hip is stretched or torn. Ligaments (tough tissue that connects bones) surround your hip and hold it in place.
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Call your doctor if:
- You have trouble standing on the leg on your injured side.
- You develop new or increased stiffness or trouble moving your injured hip.
- You develop new or increased numbness in the leg on your injured side.
- You have increased swelling and pain in your hip.
- You have bluish or pale skin on the leg on your injured side.
Treatment for a hip sprain
may include any of the following:
- NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
- Hip exercises help decrease stiffness. Your healthcare provider may want you to start hip exercises after you rest your hip for about 3 days. He or she may also have you start physical therapy. A physical therapist teaches you light exercises to help decrease pain and swelling and improve hip movement. When you are able to move your hip without pain, you will be taught exercises to improve your strength. If you have a severe sprain, you may need to wait 1 to 3 weeks before you exercise your hip.
Manage your hip sprain:
- Rest your hip for 2 to 3 days after your injury. This will help decrease the risk of more damage to your hip.
- Apply ice on your hip to decrease swelling and pain. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover the bag with a towel before you place it on your hip. Apply ice for 15 to 20 minutes every hour or as directed. You may need to apply ice to your hip at least 4 to 8 times each day for the first 48 hours.
Prevent another hip sprain:
- Do not exercise when you feel pain or you are tired.
- Exercise as directed. Make sure you warm up and stretch before you exercise.
- Wear equipment to protect yourself when you play sports.
- Wear shoes that fit well to decrease your risk for falls.
- Stop exercising and playing sports if your symptoms from a past injury return.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
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