Causes and risk factors
The region of iliac crest and surrounding area has less amount of fatty tissue. As a result as compared to other parts of the body which are protected with fatty tissues against injury, this area is more prone to injury. The main cause of hip pointer injury is a direct injury to the bone due to fall on hip or sideways. Injury to iliac crest while playing sports is another common causation. It is commonly seen in sports like football, ice hockey, and volleyball.
Clinical presentation:
Pain is the predominating feature seen. Bruised, sore feeling is felt. Spasm of muscle can lead to pulling type of pain. Injury can lead to formation of a hematoma, which can evoke severe pain. The pain increases on movement or any activity like walking, coughing, or even on breathing. Swelling may be seen at the affected area. Initially the area may become reddish in color, but over time bluish grey discoloration is seen. On examination, tenderness is felt. In some cases, hematoma formation can lead to complications like muscle fibrosis or myositis ossificans.
Investigations:
Clinical examination and the symptoms narrated are usually sufficient for confirming the diagnosis. X-ray is usually done to rule out fractures. MRI or CT scan is done for analyzing the damage to the tissues and detect the presence of hematoma.
Treatment:
Rest and application of ice and compressions for relieving the swelling is done. Analgesic or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are advised by the orthopedic doctor. Corticosteroid injections can be given. Crutches can be used for walking or to bear the weight till the complaints begin to resolve. In case of the simple bruises, the condition will resolve over a week. If there is formation of hematoma, it is drained with the help of a needle under aseptic precautions. For improving the strength and activity of the muscles, exercises are advised. Use of protective equipment and well-padded clothes helps in preventing the injury.
Other Modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up with the symptoms. Taking into consideration the symptoms in a holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints. Certain yoga exercises can also be helpful in strengthening the muscles.
