Hip sprain in children: everything you need to know 2026

While a strain is an injury that occurs in a muscle or a tendon, when a sprain occurs it is an injury to a ligament. Thus, when this injury occurs around the hip, it is medically known as a hip sprain or hip strain.

Although hip sprains are actually extremely rare, they can occur, so it is necessary - and useful - to have all the information about it, especially if it happens in a child.

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What is a hip sprain?

Both ligaments and tendons are two types of fibrous tissue that we find in our body. They connect different parts of the body. Thus, while ligaments are found in joints, where bones are attached, tendons attach muscles to bone.

Hip sprains, therefore, occur as a result of the stretching or tearing of a hip ligament.

What are the causes of hip sprain in children?

A hip sprain is caused by a tear or stretching of a hip ligament. These ligaments, which consist of strong tissues that connect the bones to each other, surround the hip, and perform a very important function: they keep it in place.

It is a type of injury that occurs when the ligaments supporting the hip joint have been torn or stretched.

In this way, hip sprain or hip strain generally occurs as a result of excessive force being placed on a tendon or muscle present in this area of ​​the body.

Especially among the little ones in the house, hip sprains occur in children after performing a certain physical exercise or any other sporting activity. In fact, the repetitive use of certain muscles can also cause this type of tension.

For example, a sprain or strain is more common in children when they fall or suffer a blow to the body, usually affecting the ankles, wrists or knees. While repeated straining of a muscle or tendon can cause a strain or tear. It is more common than a hip sprain, and usually occurs as a result of overstretching a muscle.

What symptoms does a hip sprain cause and how is it treated?

Symptoms such as swelling, stiffness and tenderness of the hip may arise, although pain when performing physical activity or after performing certain hip movements becomes the most common sign.

When treating a hip sprain, it is advisable for the child to maintain some rest, since the key is to rest the hip for 2 to 3 days after the injury. In this way, what is achieved is to reduce the risk of suffering greater damage to it.

On the other hand, applying ice to the painful hip area can provide a lot of relief, as it helps prevent tissue damage from occurring, while reducing pain and inflammation. In most cases, the application of ice is recommended during the first 48 hours at least 4 to 8 times a day. Of course, it is essential to cover the ice with a towel before applying it, and never do it directly on the skin, as there is a risk of damaging (and burning) it.

Regarding medical treatment, everything will depend on the age of the child and the doctor's recommendation. For example, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain relievers are useful to help reduce inflammation and pain, but only certain ones may be right for your child.

In any case, medications should be taken when and how the doctor has indicated.

Useful tips to prevent hip sprain

It is not recommended that the child perform physical exercise when he or she feels pain or when he or she is tired. On the other hand, it is essential that you always do warm-up and stretching exercises before carrying out any type of physical activity.

On the other hand, using appropriate protective equipment every time you practice any type of sport and wearing shoes or footwear that fit well will also be very useful, reducing the risk of falls.