The hip joint is made up of the acetabulum (the pelvic socket) and the head of the femur (thigh bone)

Together they make up the ball and socket joint of the hip. When working properly, this joint has a full range of motion. However, hip pain can be debilitating, becoming a real pain in the hip.

Causes of Pain in the Hip

Pain is usually due to inflammation within the hip joint or in the surrounding area.

Any trauma (illness or injury) that brings about inflammation can fill the joint with blood or excess fluid, stretching the hip capsule, causing discomfort and pain.

Trauma can include the following:

  • Arthritis.
  • Avascular necrosis of the femoral head.
  • Contusions.
  • Dislocation.
  • Falls resulting in fractures of the proximal or upper femur.
  • Fibromyalgia.
  • Hip bursitis.
  • Inflammation of the sciatic nerve.
  • Inguinal hernia.
  • Overuse causing arthritis.
  • Perthes disease.
  • Pregnancy.
  • Sickle cell disease.
  • Sprains and strains.
  • Viral/bacterial infections (Lyme disease, Reiter’s syndrome, and food poisoning.)
  • Wear and tear of the labrum cartilage lining the acetabulum.

Medical professionals work with the patient to determine the cause of this pain and prescribe treatment accordingly. Some hip issues are initiated elsewhere in the body and result in pain in the hip.

  • Diabetes.
  • Hernia.
  • Sciatica.
  • Spinal stenosis.

Symptoms of Hip Pain

Hip pain is different for everyone, depending upon its intensity, location, and range of motion limitations. At times, hip pain can encompass the groin, knee, or buttocks.

Pain in hip areas come and go, often causing spasms. Typically, the patient will limp as a way to compensate for weight distribution and discomfort. Over time, limping can overuse the back, knees, and ankles, causing pain in those joints, too. An activity can be limited as well as the ability to stand, walk, run, and bear weight.

Medical Attention for Hip Pain

Medical attention should be given when the ability to bear weight or move is affected or when at home remedies are no longer effective. Broken bones, fever, or loss of bladder or bowel function should have emergency attention.

Hip Pain Diagnosis

As with any medical exam, it is important to have a full history ready to present. For the physician to pinpoint the cause and make a correct diagnosis of the cause of hip pain, the patient will have to provide the what, where, when of reoccurring pain.

  • Has there been an injury or fall?
  • How long has the pain in hip regions persisted?
  • Has there been a history of fever or chills?
  • Are there other issues such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, or weight loss?
  • Do other joints hurt or swell?

Many times, simple observation and X-rays are employed for proper diagnosis. Other methods are used such as an arthrogram (contrast dye injected into the joint), blood tests, or a bone scan.

Treatment for Pain in the Hip Area

Treatment ranges from ice and over-the-counter pain medications (acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen) to rest and the use of a cane, walker, or crutches. Prescription medications are sometimes given, and if complications persist, surgery is recommended. Surgery is typically used to correct fractures or progressive arthritis, often resulting in his replacements which are the most common joint replacement surgeries. Other options include hip resurfacing and hip arthroscopy.

Hip Pain Prevention

Maintenance is key when minimizing hip pain. Maintain a healthy weight; eat a healthy, well-balanced diet; and exercise regularly for strength and flexibility. If you are a woman, consider taking calcium, vitamin D, and bisphosphonates to prevent osteoporosis. Also, check into bone mineral density screening. Reduce the risk of falling by wearing good shoes, using a walker or cane if needed, and travel in clutter-free areas.

Sharing is caring
Recommended Posts

Start typing and press Enter to search

U.S. Doctors Moving Towards the Ipad in Their PracticeIn Home Care Has Health Care Problems What Is Home Care