Hip/Thigh/Groin/Pelvis Injuries
Femur (Thigh Bone) Fracture
In sports, this injury most often occurs in the shaft and is usually caused by great force such as a direct hit or by falling from a height. The signs and symptoms of a femur fracture are pain over the fracture site, severe pain with weight bearing if attempted, and deformity. Treatment for this injury includes treating for shock, splinting(neurovascular status should be verified and splinting done before moving), and immediate referral to a physician.
Hip Pointer (Contusion)
A hip pointer is a contusion to the iliac crest and abdominal musculature. This condition results from a direct blow to the area. Signs and symptoms of this condition are immediate pain, spasms and transitory paralysis of soft tissue structures, and the inability to rotate the trunk or flex the thigh secondary to pain. Management of this injury includes rest, cold application, and referral to a physician.
Thigh Muscle Strains
A strain is the result of an injury to either a muscle or a tendon. The strain may be a simple stretch in your muscle or tendon, or it may be a partial or complete tear in the muscle-and-tendon combination. There are two major muscle groups in your thigh- the quadriceps and the hamstrings. Other muscles that may be affected are the muscles of the groin and hip flexors. Signs and symptoms of a strain are pain, point tenderness, spasm, loss of function (the amount depends on the severity of the injury), discoloration, and swelling. Recommended treatment for this injury is rest, ice, compression and elevation, which should be followed by physical therapy. For a serious tear, you may need surgical repair by an orthopedic surgeon.
