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A hip pointer is a deep bruise to the ridge of bone on the upper outside of your hip, called the iliac crest. It's often a result of a direct blow to the hip or a hard fall.
Hip pointer symptoms include pain and tenderness. Recovery from the injury usually involves taking a break from activity until it heals.
Hip pointer injuries are common in athletes who play contact sports, such as football and hockey. It can also happen to volleyball players or other athletes who often fall on their hip or side.
You can reduce the risk of a hip pointer by wearing proper protective gear while playing sports.
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Symptoms of a hip pointer injury can range from minor to major.
For a minor bruise, you may have some pain and tenderness on the upper outside of your hip.
If the hip pointer injury is more serious, you may have symptoms such as:
To diagnose a hip pointer, the doctors at UPMC Sports Medicine will ask you how the injury occurred.
To rule out more severe hip injuries, like fracture, your doctor may order imaging tests such as:
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Hip pointers get better on their own with rest, ice, and compression. While it heals, you might still be able to play sports by wearing a protective pad over your hip.
For more severe hip pointer injuries, you may need to use crutches.
Recovery time for a hip pointer varies from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the severity.
If needed after hip pointer treatment, rehab may consist of stretches and muscle strengthening exercises around your hip.
You might also need gait training if you have to use crutches for an extended period.
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