Hip instability is a loose or wobbly hip joint that’s usually caused by problems with the ligaments (the bands of connective tissue that hold bones or joints together).
In hip dislocation, the ball at the end of the thighbone is pushed out of the socket. This painful condition requires medical treatment.
An accident or injury can cause hip instability or hip dislocation. But in some cases, people are born with structural problems in the hip joint – called hip dysplasia – that can cause the hip joint to dislocate. If this is the case for you, doctors might identify dysplasia at birth, or it might not be noticeable until you’re older.
Whatever the cause of your hip problems, we can help. Our orthopedic specialists and sports medicine doctors will examine your hip and recommend appropriate noninvasive solutions like physical therapy or sports training for hip instability. We also offer advanced surgical options for hip dislocation or instability, from minimally invasive repair to total hip replacement.
Whether your hip instability or hip dislocation is due to an accident, sports injury, or congenital condition, we have the expertise and experience to get you moving again.
Our orthopedic team offers:
You should see an orthopedic or sports medicine doctor if you:
Some people are born with conditions that make hip problems more likely. Others experience athletic injuries or car accidents, both of which can cause hip instability or hip dislocation.
The most common causes of hip instability include:
Ligaments in the hip joint may be stretched or otherwise damaged because of:
Some people are born with hip dysplasia, in which the ball of the hip joint is loose in the socket. This hip instability may lead to hip dislocation, where the joint slips out of the socket.
Types of hip dysplasia include:
Genetic or inherited syndromes can affect body structures and make hip dysplasia or hip dislocation more likely. These include:
If you’re experiencing hip pain and instability, your doctor will perform a complete physical exam and discuss your symptoms and medical history.
To understand the cause of the hip instability and find the best treatment for you, your doctor may order tests including:
Our doctors will recommend a treatment plan based on the condition of your hip and your overall health. With each of their recommendations, they’ll focus on relieving pain and improving your hip’s function. Find out more about our treatments for hip pain.
Our doctors may suggest treatments like: