X-rays are usually taken after traumatic blows to the hip. Falling on the hip, or even falling hard on the knee so that it drives the thigh bone (femur) into the pelvis, usually requires an x-ray to rule out a fracture. If there is excessive pain at the joint or if the injured person cannot stand up or put any weight on the injured leg, then a hip x-ray may be necessary. Prolonged pain at the hip that does not get better with time may be verified by an x-ray to ensure that there are no bony abnormalities.
(This answer provided for NATA by the University of Tampa Athletic Training Education Program)