Explanation of Diagnosis

A hip dislocation occurs when the head of the femur (thigh bone) is forced out of the hip socket (acetabulum), typically due to high-impact trauma (e.g., car accidents, falls, or sports injuries). It can also occur in individuals with hip replacements or congenital hip instability. Symptoms include severe hip pain, inability to move the leg, swelling, and possible nerve damage (numbness or weakness in the leg).

A posterior dislocation (most common) means the femur moves backward, while an anterior dislocation (less common) means the femur moves forward.

This is a medical emergency. Seek immediate treatment. After reduction (realigning the joint), recovery will depend on the severity of soft tissue damage, nerve involvement, and whether surgery is required.

Specific Work Modifications

• Avoid prolonged standing, walking, or lifting.
• Modify tasks to allow seated work and limit excessive movement.
• Use crutches, a walker, or a cane if non-weight-bearing is required.
• Adjust chair height to avoid excessive hip bending.
• Avoid deep squatting, pivoting, or sudden movements that could re-dislocate the hip.

Specific Activity Modifications

• Avoid high-impact activities (running, jumping, contact sports).
• Modify workouts by switching to low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling (once cleared by a doctor).
• Avoid positions that involve excessive hip flexion (e.g., deep squats, lunges, or crossing legs).
• Follow a gradual return-to-activity plan guided by physical therapy.

Recommended Supplements

• Collagen peptides (10 g daily) – Supports ligament and soft tissue repair.
• Vitamin D3 (1000-2000 IU daily) – Aids in bone and joint health.
• Calcium (1000-1200 mg daily) – Supports bone strength.
• Magnesium (300-400 mg daily) – Helps with muscle relaxation and reduces cramping.
• Omega-3 fatty acids (1000 mg daily) – Reduces inflammation and supports joint recovery.

Recommended Nutrition and Hydration

Diet Recommendations:

• Bone and joint-supporting foods: Dairy products, leafy greens, almonds, salmon, and fortified cereals.
• Anti-inflammatory foods: Fatty fish (salmon, sardines), turmeric, berries, walnuts, and olive oil.
• Protein-rich foods: Chicken, eggs, lentils, and dairy to support tissue repair.
• Limit processed foods, sugar, and alcohol, which can slow healing and increase inflammation.

Hydration Tips:

• Drink at least 2–3 liters of water daily to maintain tissue hydration and reduce joint stiffness.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can interfere with bone and soft tissue recovery.

Home Exercise Prescription

Follow medical clearance before starting exercises. Avoid aggressive stretching or deep hip movements.

Phase 1: Early Recovery (Weeks 1-4, Reduce Pain & Maintain Mobility)

1. Ankle Pumps & Toe Wiggles

1. • Move the ankle up and down to promote circulation.
   • 10 reps, 3 times daily.

2. Pelvic Tilts

1. • Lie on your back, tighten your core, and flatten your lower back.
   • 10 reps, 2 times daily.

3. Seated Knee Extensions

1. • Sit with feet flat, slowly straighten the affected leg, then lower it.
   • 10 reps per leg, 2 times daily.

Phase 2: Strength & Stability (Weeks 4-8, Once Cleared for Light Weight-Bearing)

4. Glute Bridges (Hip & Core Strengthening)

1. • Lie on your back, bend knees, and lift hips while squeezing the glutes.
   • 10 reps, 2 times daily.

5. Clamshells (Hip Abductor Strengthening)

1. • Lie on your side with knees bent, lift the top knee without moving hips.
   • 10 reps per side, 2 times daily.

6. Standing Hip Abduction

1. • Stand tall and lift one leg sideways without tilting the torso.
   • 10 reps per leg, 2 times daily.

Phase 3: Return to Activity (Weeks 8+, If Pain-Free & Doctor Approved)

7. Mini Squats (If Comfortable, Avoid Deep Squats)

1. • Keep weight in heels and avoid bending past 45 degrees.
   • 10 reps, 2 times daily.

8. Single-Leg Balance Exercise

1. • Stand on one foot for 15-30 seconds, increasing time as tolerated.
   • Repeat 2-3 times per leg.

⚠ Avoid running, jumping, deep squatting, and extreme hip flexion until fully healed (typically 3-6 months).

Helpful Books

1. "The Hip Pain Handbook: A Guide to Preventing and Treating Hip Injuries" – Nicolas Piuzzi, MD
2. "Rehab Science: How to Overcome Pain and Heal from Injury" – Tom Walters, DPT

Contact the Key West orthopedic clinic or reach out to Dr. Jason Pirozzolo.