Hip Pain
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Hip Pain Overview
The hip joint is the joint that connects the thigh bone (femur) to the pelvis. It functions as a ball and socket joint that moves in multiple directions. Signs of problems in the hip include:
- Pain in the groin
- Pain in the front of the hip
- Pain increases with walking
- Limited range of motion in the hip
- Limited ability to cross the legs in sitting
Pain in the back of the hip or buttocks is often confused with hip pain but is frequently the result of issues with the low back.
Anatomy of the Hip
Causes of Hip Injuries
Arthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis (inflammatory joint disease)
- Osteoarthritis (disease causing the breakdown of joints)
- Psoriatic arthritis
Injuries/Trauma
- Hip fracture
- Bursitis (joint inflammation)
- Dislocation
- Inguinal hernia
- Femoroacetabular Impingement (F.A.I.)
- Strain/Sprain
Cancer
- Bone Cancer
- Leukemia
Other
What is the Fastest Way to Relieve Hip Pain? Is Walking Good for Hip Pain?
Pain in the hip joint may limit walking and daily activity tolerance. The best way to address the pain initially is to cut back on walking and consider exercises which require less weight bearing. For example, riding a stationary bike. Light stretching may be helpful as well.
Ice or heat may help with surface symptoms but the hip is a very deep joint and the thermal effects of ice or heat may not reach the hip joint. If this does not help, you may need formal physical therapy.
Hip Flexor Stretch
Learn more about hip pain stretches here!
What does it Feel Like to Have Arthritis in Your Hip?
Hip arthritis can have a wide range of severity in symptoms. Most people notice pain in the hip or groin region which is worse with excessive weight bearing activity. Patients may experience stiffness or loss of range of motion in the hip and limited mobility with daily activity. At times, the hip may cause pain in the knee. Arthritis in the hip may alter walking patterns and also cause low back pain.
What are the First Signs of Needing a Hip Replacement?
Signs that you may need a hip replacement include severe pain in the hip or groin that does not improve pain in the groin with crossing the legs or flexing the hip, or hip and groin pain with walking. Most of the time, a hip replacement is needed when there is hip pain due to severe osteoarthritis in the hip joint. This may cause limited range of motion and walking tolerance.
When Should I Go to the Doctor for Hip Pain?
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should consult an orthopedic physician:
- Hip pain that has been present for more than a month
- Hip pain that radiates to the groin
- Hip and groin pain when sitting, driving, walking, sleeping or exercising
- Pain with flexion of the hip or lifting up your leg
- Pain or stiffness with decreased hip range of motion
Several Approaches To Treating Hip Pain With JOI Physical Therapy
Despite hip pain being a common complaint among all people, there are a few easy forms of physical therapy which can help. Exercises for core and hip strength can help provide stability. These exercises are used to treat and prevent pain in the hips. . Lastly and perhaps most importantly is keeping up with your health. Excessive body weight can cause further damage to your hip joints. To schedule physical therapy at JOI Rehab, please call 904-858-7045.
To learn more about the Anatomy of the Hip, please watch this video: Anatomy of the Hip Video
If you want to schedule an appointment with a JOI Orthopedic Hip Specialist by Telehealth or in the office, please call 904-JOI-2000, schedule online or click below.