Hip Pain: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Exercise

North Beverley Medical Centre

Pighill Lane
Off Woodall Way
BEVERLEY
HU17 7JY
Telephone: 01482 882546

Medical Emergencies dial 999

Out of Hours:  dial  111

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HIP PAIN

There are lots of possible causes of hip pain. It might be caused by a sudden injury or a longer-lasting problem such as arthritis. Your symptoms might give you an idea what could be causing the pain. But do not self-diagnose, see a GP if you're worried.

Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

  • Osteoarthritis:
    • Degeneration of joint cartilage and underlying bone, causing pain and stiffness.
  • Bursitis:
    • Inflammation of the bursae, the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the hip joint.
  • Tendinitis:
    • Inflammation of the tendons around the hip joint, often due to overuse.
  • Hip Fractures:
    • Breaks in the upper part of the femur (thigh bone), common in older adults due to falls or osteoporosis.
  • Muscle or Tendon Strain:
    • Overstretching or tearing of muscles or tendons around the hip.
  • Hip Labral Tear:
    • Damage to the ring of cartilage (labrum) that follows the outside rim of the socket of the hip joint.
  • Hernia:
    • Inguinal or femoral hernias can cause pain in the front of the hip.
  • Sciatica:
    • Compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, causing pain that radiates from the lower back to the hip and leg.
  • Inflammatory Conditions:
    • Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis.

Symptoms

  • Pain in the hip joint, groin, thigh, or buttock.
  • Stiffness and reduced range of motion
  • Swelling and tenderness around the hip.
  • Limping or difficulty walking.
  • Pain that worsens with activity or prolonged sitting.

Diagnosis

  • Physical Examination: :
    • A doctor will assess pain, range of motion, and check for signs of swelling or tenderness.
  • X-rays: :
    • To detect fractures, arthritis, and bone abnormalities.
  • MRI or CT Scans:
    • To get detailed images of soft tissues, such as muscles, tendons, and cartilage.
  • MRI or Ultrasound:
    • To get detailed images of soft tissues, such as muscles, tendons, and cartilage.
  • Ultrasound:
    • To evaluate soft tissue structures.
  • Blood Tests:
    • To check for inflammatory conditions or infections.

Treatment Options

Self-Care and Home Remedies

  • Rest:
    • Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain.
  • Ice and Heat Therapy:
    • Apply ice packs for 20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling, or use heat packs to relax muscles and alleviate stiffness.
  • Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers:
    • Medications like ibuprofen or paracetamol can help reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Stretching and Strengthening Exercises:
    • Gentle exercises to maintain flexibility and strength in the hip area.

Medical Treatments

  • Physical Therapy::
    • Tailored exercises to strengthen the hip muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.
  • Medications:
    • Anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroid injections, or medications for underlying conditions like arthritis.
  • Assistive Devices:
    • Using a cane or walker to reduce pressure on the hip joint.
  • Surgery:
    • In severe cases, surgical options may include hip arthroscopy, hip resurfacing, or hip replacement.

Lifestyle Changes and Prevention

  • Maintain a Healthy Weight:
    • Reduces stress on the hip joints.
  • Regular Exercise:
    • Low-impact activities like swimming or cycling can help keep the hip joints flexible and strong.
  • Proper Footwear:
    • Wear shoes that provide good support and cushioning.
  • Avoid Repetitive Stress:
    • Modify activities to avoid repetitive stress on the hips.

When to See a Doctor

  • Severe pain that doesn’t improve with rest and self-care.
  • Pain that radiates down the leg.
  • Swelling, redness, or warmth around the hip.
  • Inability to move the hip or bear weight on the leg.
  • Signs of infection, such as fever.

Consulting with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and comprehensive treatment plan is essential for effectively managing hip pain.