What is a hip malunion?
Hip malunion describes hip bones that broke and then healed incorrectly. In other words, a hip malunion is a bad hip bone union.
Hip malunions can occur when a hip heals improperly on its own or after failed orthopaedic surgery. You can also develop hip malunion if you overexert your hip too soon after surgery.
Symptoms of hip malunion include:
- Localized pain and discomfort
- Gait abnormalities
- Loss of motion
- Reduced function in affected area or limb
Also, malunion can cause inflammation and infection as a result of tissue damage.
Who is at risk for hip fractures?
You’re at a higher risk for hip fractures if you:
- Are a woman
- Have broken your hip before
- Are over the age of 65
- Take certain medications
- Are prone to falls
- Have a vitamin D deficiency
- Are inactive
- Smoke cigarettes
- Consume an excessive amount of caffeine or alcohol
The likelihood that you could break your hip is also higher if you have decreased bone density from osteoporosis or weakened bones as a result of cancer or previous stress injuries.
How do you diagnose hip malunion?
To determine whether your pain is a result of hip malunion, Dr. Johnson starts by discussing your symptoms with you and going over your health history. He then proceeds with a clinical exam, during which he looks over your hip and tests its range of motion and your pain response.
Often, he finishes up his exam by running imaging tests, such as:
Imaging tests like these help Dr. Johnson see what’s going on inside your body. If he determines that you do have hip malunion, Dr. Johnson then prescribes a course of treatment based on the severity of your condition and your general health.
How do you treat hip malunion?
If you suffer from a hip malunion fracture that makes it difficult or painful for you to walk, Dr. Johnson can intervene with an osteotomy, a type of surgery designed to reposition bones that haven’t healed correctly.
During an osteotomy procedure, he can accomplish realignment using several different techniques, including bone lengthening, bone shortening, and bone realignment.
If you’re plagued with hip pain and were treated for hip problems in the past, you may have hip malunion. To get to the bottom of your pain and correct it, book an appointment with Dr. Johnson online or over the phone today.
