Hip Pointer with an Avulsion Fracture

A hip pointer is an injury to the pelvis caused by a direct blow, often seen in contact sports such as football. The term hip pointer is somewhat confusing. It can refer to a deep bruise of the muscle and bone, a small chip fracture or even a complete break. Typically, however, this term refers to a severe bruise and not a fracture.

What happens when an athlete gets a hip pointer?

A hip pointer is an injury is to the iliac crest, the bony prominence that can be felt along the waist line. Spearing the hip/pelvis with a helmet while tackling may be the most common cause.When someone sustains a hip pointer injury, the bone and overlying muscle can be bruised.

In more serious cases of hip pointer, the hit can be so severe that a fracture of the bone results. While the treatment may not change, a fracture will likely cause a delay in healing and more painful symptoms.

The patient may walk with a limp and have difficulty moving the hip away from the body against resistance. X-rays are taken to rule out fractures. Occasionally, further studies may be indicated if the patient's symptoms do not improve with treatment.

Treatment:

Treatment of a hip pointer is best accomplished with rest. Ice applications and anti-inflammatory medication will also help, but only time will heal the injury. Again, X-rays may be taken if a fracture is suspected.

Surgery is very rarely indicated. It is usually reserved for patients with significant displacement of fractures of bone where the muscles attach around the pelvis.