Joint Pain: Focus On Hips

People might joke that hip pain and broken hips are the hallmarks of old age, but anyone can suffer from hip pain. It’s one of the most common types of joint pain, and a top reason patients seek out medication management for pain. Surprisingly, the pelvis (which is part of the hip system) is the most unique part of the human body, even more so than fingerprints. It’s a complex system that we demand a lot of, and with so many parts of all sizes, a lot can go wrong. The good news is that there are alternative treatments like joint injections and viscosupplementation that pair well with physical therapy, rest, and perhaps surgery. We also invite you to learn more about Dr. Nikesh Seth and other providers including Dr. Anne-Marie Cosijns, Dr. Lisa Sparks, Dr. Michael Givens, and our team of Nurse Practitioners.

Why And Where Hip Pain Occurs

HIP JOINTS

Hip pain can occur anywhere in this relatively large part of the body, and may or may not be caused by the hip joint – that’s one of the first things you’ll figure out with your doctor. From the upper thigh to the outer buttock, common causes include tendons, muscles, ligaments, and soft tissues being stressed or torn. In some cases, hip pain may be caused by other issues in the body, such as the lower back. Sometimes hip pain is caused by diseases. There are treatment options for those who prefer a more conservative approach to medication management.

ARTHRITIS

A common cause of hip pain is arthritis, but again this isn’t just reserved for those in their golden years. This type of joint pain has been associated with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (which occurs in children), osteoporosis that breaks down the joints, septic arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or the inflammatory joint disease known as rheumatoid arthritis. Of course, hip pain may also be caused by the joint inflammation bursitis, a labral tear in the hip, sprains or strains, or more serious and painful conditions like a hip fracture, dislocation, or hernia.

TENDINITIS

Tendinitis, pinched nerves (particularly the sciatica nerve), and other conditions like the death of bone tissue from low blood flow can all lead to hip pain. It’s important not to try and self-diagnose, since just about anything (including bone cancer and leukemia) has links to hip pain, even though those conditions are much less likely than others.

Some people are simply built with hips that are more prone to become inflamed or painful than others. Women who have given birth may experience lingering hip pain since the structure has changed. Athletes, particularly runners, cyclists, and weightlifters, put intense demands on their hip joints. If you’re in pain, contact Integrated Pain Consultants today.