Sibelius Hindemith wrote: ↑Thu Sep 10, 2026 4:05 pm
Its what happened to Bo Jackson at the severe end of the spectrum.
Yeah, I was thinking that too. That was a dislocation. It's interesting the advancement in sports medicine since then
Bo Jackson’s traumatic hip dislocation and subsequent avascular necrosis (AVN) would still carry a severe risk of ending an NFL career today, though modern medical and surgical advances offer a much better chance at a functional recovery
Delayed Diagnosis:
In 1991, doctors initially missed the severity of the hip dislocation, allowing the delay to compromise blood flow to the femoral head
Avascular Necrosis (AVN):
The compression of blood vessels led to bone death in the hip joint, forcing a total hip replacement at age 28
Limited Sports Medicine:
Surgical techniques, arthroscopic imaging, and rehabilitation protocols 30 years ago were not advanced enough to withstand the extreme torque required of an elite running back.
The Outlook Today
Faster Imaging and Intervention: Immediate, high-resolution MRIs and emergency reduction protocols today drastically minimize the window of restricted blood flow.
Advanced Arthroscopy:
Surgeons can now repair labral tears and stabilize joints much more effectively without always needing immediate joint replacements.
The Persistent Risk of AVN:
Medical experts note that high-energy hip dislocations still carry a 15% to 40% risk of developing AVN. If severe AVN sets in for a position as punishing as an NFL running back, the sheer physical impact forces a retirement or a major shift in mobility, even with modern custom implants
