Hip Pointer Follow-up

Updated: Jan 05, 2021
  • Author: John M Martinez, MD; Chief Editor: Sherwin SW Ho, MD  more...
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Follow-up

Return to Play

Patients with hip pointer injuries may return to play once pain and swelling allow return to normal or near-normal function. Padding over the affected area may help protect the area from reinjury.

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Complications

Complications include hematoma formation, which may lead to myositis ossificans and scar-tissue formation. Additionally, inflammation and continued pain may result in chronic bursitis.

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Prevention

Prevention of hip pointers may be difficult, but extra padding and protection over the iliac crest in football and hockey players may decrease the frequency and severity of injury.

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Prognosis

The prognosis is usually very good, and the athlete with a hip pointer injury can usually return to normal participation in 1-3 weeks, depending upon the extent of the injury.

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Education

Education should include an explanation of the injury and advice on treatment, rehabilitation, and prevention of future hip pointer injuries.

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