Colorado Springs Hip Injury Lawyers
Consequences of Slip and Fall Accidents
The hips are the widest part of the body and take the greatest impact in a fall. Hip injuries, including fractures, are common in slip and fall accidents. This type of injury can be extremely painful. Hip fractures can be particularly devastating for older people, as they can mean a loss of independent living.
Common Hip Injuries
Every year in the U.S., at least 300,000 older people are hospitalized for hip fractures, as stated by the CDC. While seniors are more likely to suffer hip injuries, accidents can happen with younger people as well. The following are among the most common hip injuries caused by falling:
- Hip fracture: When the hip is fractured, it can cause pain in the upper thigh and groin as well as the hip. Most hip fractures require surgery. Older adults with osteoporosis have a higher risk of fracturing a hip in a fall.
- Dislocated hip: Trauma can cause the ball of thigh bone to come out of the hip socket, dislocating the hip. Hip dislocation can cause acute pain. In some cases, a doctor can manipulate the thigh bone back into place. In other cases, surgery is required.
- Hip strain: A strain can result from trauma to the muscles and tendons around the hip. This can cause radiating pain over the abdomen and the muscles of the buttocks. While some hip strains can be treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation, others may require physical therapy or surgery.
- Labral tear of the hip joint: A tear in the labrum (ring of cartilage around the hip joint socket) can cause limited range of motion, a clicking sensation, and pain that radiates to the groin. Osteoarthritis is a complication of a labral tear.
- Snapping hip syndrome: With this condition, a popping sound or snapping sensation occurs with movement such as walking, swinging the leg, or getting up from a chair. It involves the iliotibial band of fibrous tissue extending down the outside of the upper leg. Snapping hip syndrome may be treated with cortisone injections, stretching exercises, over-the-counter medications, or icing the area.
- Bursitis of the hip: Injury to the point of the hip from a fall or bump can cause bursitis. This occurs when the bursa (fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints) become inflamed. People with hip bursitis may experience tenderness, warmth to the touch, and pain with movement.
How Do Hip Injuries Occur?
Slip and fall accidents are among the most common causes of hip injuries. More than 95% of hip fractures are caused by falling, usually sideways, according to the CDC. Other causes of hip injuries include car accidents, motorcycle accidents, and bicycle accidents.
What Are Some Risk Factors for Hip Injuries?
Older people have a higher risk for hip injuries in a fall, because of balance problems, impaired vision, muscle weakness, or side effects from medications. Risk factors for hip injuries include:
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Physical inactivity
- Chronic illness
- Gender (women typically lose bone density faster than men)
- Alcohol consumption
- Inadequate lighting
- Icy sidewalks
- Slippery rugs
- Clutter
Common Medical Complications With Hip Injuries
Most hip fractures require surgery, which comes with a risk of complications, including infection and pulmonary embolism. This type of injury can also immobilize a person for an extended period, which can lead to bed sores, blood clots in the legs or lungs, and urinary tract infections. Inactivity from a hip fracture can also lead to loss of muscle mass, which increases the risk of falling.
If you or your loved one has suffered hip injuries in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, call The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. at (719) 475-2555 to schedule a free consultation. Our Colorado Springs personal injury lawyer can advise you whether you have a case and what damages you may be entitled to claim.
