Hip pain is very common, especially among adults. According to a study, around 10% of people in the general population experience hip pain, and this number grows as people age. For people experiencing hip pain, simply sitting or standing can be a struggle and it diminishes one’s ability to function, resulting in a poorer quality of life.
In this article, we will tell you about hip pain, possible causes, ways on how to reduce or prevent the pain, and the treatment options.
Possible Causes of Hip Pain
Hip pain when walking is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors. The most common causes of hip pain when walking include arthritis, bursitis, osteoarthritis, tendonitis, hip fractures and labral tears.
- Arthritis
Arthritis is a chronic condition that causes inflammation and pain in the joints. It can affect people of all ages, but it is more common in adults over the age of 65. When arthritis affects the hip joint, it can cause pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. In severe cases, arthritis can lead to the breakdown of the cartilage that lines the hip joint, resulting in bone-on-bone contact and further pain.
- Bursitis
Bursitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the bursae, which are small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints. If bursitis develops in the hip, it can lead to discomfort and rigidity in the hip region. If left untreated, bursitis can lead to hip pain and other mobility issues.
- Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition that can cause the cartilage to break down, leading to pain, stiffness, and difficulty in movement. The pain from osteoarthritis of the hip can be felt in the thigh, groin, and buttock. In addition, the joint may become inflamed and swollen. As the condition progresses, the hip may become increasingly painful and difficult to move, making everyday activities difficult.
- Tendonitis
Tendonitis is a condition caused by inflammation and irritation of tendons that connect muscles to the bones. It can be caused by overuse, injury, infection, or a medical condition. Adults are particularly prone to this type of pain due to age-related degeneration of the connective tissues.
- Hip Fractures
A hip fracture is a serious injury that can cause severe pain, swelling, and bruising in the affected area. It is most common in elderly adults, but it can occur in any age group. If left untreated, a hip fracture can lead to hip pain, instability in the hip joint, and difficulty walking and bearing weight. It can also result in long-term pain and disability, as well as increased risk of other medical conditions such as osteoporosis and arthritis.
- Labral Tear
A labral tear is a type of injury that affects the labrum, which is a ring of cartilage that lines the rim of the hip socket. Signs of a labral tear may involve a feeling of being stuck or locked in the hip, ache in the hip joint, and soreness in the groin region.
What are the first signs of needing a hip replacement?
The first signs that you may need a hip replacement typically include:
- Persistent pain and stiffness in the hip joint
- Grinding sensation or popping sound in the hip
- Difficulty walking and difficulty climbing stairs
- Difficulty to stand up from a seated position
- Noticeable changes in the hip joint
- Limited mobility
If you are experiencing any of these signs, it is important to see your healthcare provider for an evaluation and diagnosis.
Ways to Prevent Hip Injury
Here are some tips for keeping your hips strong and healthy, and away from any pain or injury.
- Strengthen and stretch the muscles: Strengthening the hip muscles can help reduce the risk of hip pain and injury, by increasing stability and flexibility. Some exercises include hip bridges, clamshells, squats, and lunges.
- Keep moving: Regular physical activity helps to keep the hip joint flexible and strong. Low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, and cycling are great options for those with hip pain or those trying to prevent hip pain and injury.
- Wear proper shoes: Wearing the right type of shoes can help support the hips and reduce the risk of pain and injury. Shoes should provide cushioning and support, and be the right size and fit for the individual.
- Improve core strength: The core muscles (hips, abdominals, and lower back) are essential for providing stability and balance. Strengthening the core muscles can help prevent hip pain and injury. Exercises that can help improve core strength include planks and bridges.
- Avoid overuse: Overuse of the hips can lead to soreness and injury. When exercising, it’s important to gradually increase the intensity and duration over time to reduce the risk of hip pain and injury.
Treatment Options for Hip Pain
Treating hip pain in adults can depend on the underlying cause. If the pain is due to an underlying medical condition, then treatment should focus on managing the condition that caused the pain.
Here are some of the options to treat hip pain:
- Exercise:
Regular exercise can help strengthen the muscles that support the hip joint, reduce pain and improve range of motion. It is essential to choose exercises that have a minimal effect on the hip joint, such as swimming, cycling, and walking.
- Lifestyle changes:
Making lifestyle changes such as losing weight and increasing physical activity can assist in alleviating hip discomfort. At the same time, it is important to avoid activities that may worsen hip pain, such as running or certain sports.
- Hot and cold therapy:
Applying hot or cold compress to the hip can help reduce pain and swelling. Ice should be applied for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. Heat can be used to soothe muscles and reduce tension.
- Medications:
Over-the-counter medication, like ibuprofen and acetaminophen, may be used to decrease discomfort and inflammation. If these do not sufficiently alleviate pain and swelling, a physician may suggest more potent medications.
- Rest:
Resting the hip joint can help reduce pain and inflammation. It is important to avoid activities that will aggravate the joint, such as running and jumping.
- Physical therapy:
A physical therapist can teach exercises that can help improve range of motion, reduce pain, and strengthen the muscles that support the hip joint.
- Injections:
Injections such as corticosteroid injections or hyaluronic acid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Surgery:
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the hip joint. This should be discussed with a doctor and should only be performed by qualified and licensed practitioners.
When to Seek Medical Advice?
If you experience hip pain when walking, it is important to seek immediate medical advice to determine the cause of the pain and the required medical treatment.
When seeking medical advice for hip pain, it is important to tell your doctor about all of your symptoms, as well as any other medical conditions you may have. Your doctor will be able to properly diagnose your condition and provide a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs.
Where to find the best orthopedic doctors in Hernando County?
If you are looking for an orthopedic doctor for your hip problem, Dr. Imad Tarabishy is one of the best and most experienced orthopedic doctors in Brooksville, Fl. He provides high-quality medical care and services to treat various orthopedic problems. Some of the techniques he specializes in include:
- Knee arthroscopy
- Knee replacement surgery
- Hip replacement surgery
- Shoulder arthroscopy
- Carpal tunnel release
- Meniscus tear treatment
- And more
Contact us now to book an appointment and free yourself from any pain and discomfort.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
