Falls are one of the most common causes of unintentional injury in the United States. The most dangerous aspect of falls is that they can essentially happen to anyone at any time.
Older people, especially, are susceptible to serious injuries and they don’t come much more serious than hip injuries. Outlined below are some of the more common hip injuries that can occur after a fall.
Dislocations
The hip comprises a ball-and-socket joint in which the thigh bone connects to the pelvis. During a fall, this joint can come under immense pressure and trauma, resulting in the joint popping out of the socket.
All hip dislocations are extremely painful and they can lead to further complications, particularly in elderly individuals. The recovery period can be several months, in which a person’s day-to-day activities will be restricted.
Snapping hip syndrome
As the name suggests, snapping hip syndrome involves the hip area making a snapping noise when in motion. This condition can make it difficult and painful for a person merely to get out of bed in the morning.
Sometimes, simple treatment such as pain relief can improve the condition within a matter of weeks. Nonetheless, the injury may be so serious that cortisone injections are required, and the recovery time might be extended to a matter of months.
Hip fractures
A fractured hip is one of the more painful and severe injuries in this area. An individual who has suffered this type of injury may require multiple reconstructive surgeries or a hip replacement. In extreme circumstances, especially with older people, the damage cannot be completely undone.
The owners and managers of public premises have a responsibility to make them as safe as possible. If negligent conduct caused your hip injury, you could be entitled to legal compensation. Your best option might be to seek guidance from someone with knowledge of personal injury law.
