Hip problems make daily activities such as sleeping or lying in certain positions, walking, climbing stairs, standing up from a seated position, bending your leg in towards your chest (as when dressing, cutting your toe nails, or washing/drying your feet), running, squatting and standing difficult and painful. Most hip problems are the result of repetitive movements we do on a daily basis. Because this joint is necessary for weight bearing activities, it can be a source of pain among all ages. There are many hip discomfort causes.
If left untreated the pain could continue to worsen and can make it difficult to walk the dog, drive, exercise, and participate in any sporting activities. Furthermore, compensations due to hip pain can lead to secondary pains of the lower back, knee or ankle/foot and further restrict you.
What are the three most common causes of hip pain?
- Arthritis: Chronic hip pain is often due to arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis. This is the ‘wear and tear’ kind of pain that affects many people as they age. The ball and socket joint in the hip starts to wear out. Arthritis pain is often felt in the front of your thigh or in the groin, because of stiffness or swelling in the joint. As the joint continues to degenerate or ‘wear away’ many individuals are faced with the option of undergoing total hip replacements
- Hip fractures: Hip fractures are most commonly the result of a traumatic event such as a fall. In many cases, hip fractures require surgery. Fractures can also be common among older women because they often have decreased bone density (osteoporosis). Symptoms of a hip fracture include the inability to lift or pull weight on the injured side.
- Tendinitis and bursitis: ‘Itis’ refers to inflammation. There are many tendons that attach muscles to the hip. These can become inflamed when they are overused. Repetitive and strenuous activity such as running can result in types of hip tendinitis like IT Band Syndrome. ‘Bursitis’ refers to an inflamed bursa. The bursa is the fluid-filled sack that can be found on the bony surfaces and act as a cushion. When you perform activities that require repetitive hip movements, the bursa can become irritated and this results in pain.
Stretches and strengthening exercises can improve the following:
- Hip flexibility
- Hip joint mobility
- Hip range of motion
- Hip strength
A Physical Therapist will be able to perform special tests to determine what may be contributing to your pain. Physical therapy can help improve your strength, muscle control, balance and flexibility.
CALL Loudoun Sports Therapy Center TODAY at 703-450-4300 to start handling your hip pain now. Our physical therapists will fully evaluate your hip and associated symptoms and help restore your full function so you can get back to all your activities fast!
CLICK HERE to learn what may be causing your hip discomfort.
