What is Hip Joint Pain? - Causes, Treatment and Symptoms

The hip joint is one of the largest joints of the body that aids in movement, weight bearing, & coordination, which, if injured, can result in pain and stiffness. It can be relieved through OTC pain relievers; however, it can be severe pain that needs medical & supportive treatment 

Symptoms of Hip Joint Pain:

• Dull, sharp, or stabbing pain in the hip, groin, or upper thigh
• Reduced range of motion, & increased stiffness
• Pain usually worsens with walking, climbing stairs, or running
• Limping or improper walking patterns.
• Clicking or popping sounds while you move.
• Noticeable swelling & tenderness at the affected area

Common conditions associated with symptoms of hip joint pain

• Hip Osteoarthritis: One of the common conditions, particularly among older individuals, characterized by damage or degeneration of the cartilage leading to joint inflammation.  
• Hip Tendinitis: Overuse of the hip joint often leads to inflammation of the tendons in the hip, which is most often observed in athletes participating in various sports. 
• Hip Bursitis: The bursa, a fluid-filled sac surrounding the hip joint, serves as a cushion to facilitate pain-free movement during walking, reduce friction, and support weight bearing. When one of the bursae becomes inflamed, it is referred to as bursitis, which can result in pain and stiffness.

In addition to the above conditions, spinal problems that involve nerve compression or disc degeneration, such as sciatica, can cause side hip pain.

Causes of Hip Joint Pain:

Hip injuries or Fractures: Hip fractures are common with sudden fall or accidents, in elderly individuals, where their joint become brittle over time, resulting in pain & stiffness.

When to see your doctor for Hip Joint Pain?

•  If you are experiencing severe hip pain that lasts for more than a few days.
• If you had a recent fall or injury to your hip joint.
•  If you are facing difficulty while performing daily activities
•  If you notice warmth, tenderness, swelling, & redness in the affected region.
•  If you are unable to walk, bend, or pick up anything from down. 

Don’t wait for signs to grow severe. Consult our  Ortho Specialists today

Treatment for Hip Joint Pain:

• Rest and Ice: Taking adequate rest & applying an ice pack to the hip joint to ease discomfort.
• Physiotherapy: Physical exercises are suggested to improve the hip joint’s flexibility & range of motion.
• Medications: Certain pain medications are prescribed to reduce the hip pain and discomfort.
• Surgery: Alternatively, surgical arthroscopic procedures such as hip arthroscopy, hip replacement, etc., are employed when conservative therapies are ineffective.

What if Hip Joint Pain is left untreated?
Hip pain, often associated with conditions like arthritis, can result in additional harm to the hip joint and create a dependency on others for carrying out even everyday tasks. Moreover, it has the potential to cause secondary injuries as it impacts surrounding areas or tissues, and in the most severe cases, if untreated, it may lead to disability.

Have any questions or concerns about your health? We’re here to help! Call us at +918065906165  for expert advice and support.