North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

Which sign is commonly associated with a posterior hip dislocation?

1. The leg is rotated outward

2. The hip is extended

3. The leg is rotated inward

4. The knee is straightened

The correct answer is: The leg is rotated inward

A posterior hip dislocation is commonly associated with the affected leg being rotated inward. When the hip joint is dislocated posteriorly, the position of the leg reflects the displacement of the femoral head from its normal position within the acetabulum. In this condition, the femur rotates inward as it becomes displaced, causing the foot to point inward compared to the unaffected leg. Symptoms of a posterior hip dislocation also typically include severe pain, inability to move the leg, and potential shortening of the limb. While other positions of the leg, such as being extended or in a different rotation, can occur in various types of injuries, inward rotation is a classic presentation specific to posterior dislocation scenarios. Understanding the mechanics of hip dislocations is crucial for accurate assessment, diagnosis, and subsequent management in emergency settings.