Let’s talk about pain…
When talking with your physical therapist or your doctor about your hip pain it’s important to be able to describe exactly where your pain is located to help confirm that your hip is actually the problem. It’s not uncommon to hear “My hip hurts!” when in turn it may actually be related to the back. Symptoms located in the upper buttocks or upper thigh may be due to lower back problem. Hip pain is often felt in the groin or on the outside of the hip directly where the joint is located.
And why…
Most of the common causes of hip pain are due to wear and tear or overuse. Meaning that most hip problems are the result of the abuse and/or repetitive movements we do on a daily basis. Because this joint is necessary for weight bearing activity it can be a source of pain for all ages not just the aging population but also younger athletes.
- Osteoarthritis- Chronic hip pain is often due to arthritis which refers to normal wear-and-tear that affects many people as they age. 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 replacement procedures.
- Tendinitis and Bursitis- “itis” refers to inflammation. There are many tendons that attach muscles to the hip which can become inflamed when overused. Repetitive strenuous activity such as running/walking can result in hip tendonitis such as iliotibial band syndrome. Bursitis refers to an inflamed bursa,which is a fluid filled sac that can be found on bony surfaces acting as a cushion. Because of its location the bursa can easily be irritated or painful when sleeping on that side. When performing repeated hip movements the bursa can also become irritated and result in pain. If you have been doing a lot of running or walking during this recent time to stay active any noted hip pain is likely related or inflammation or an “ITIS” https://loudounsportstherapy.com/hip-tendonitis-bursitis-5-7-2020
- Hip Fractures- Hip fractures are most commonly the result of a traumatic event, such as a fall, which in many cases require surgery. Fractures can also be common among older women with decreased bone density (osteoporosis). Symptoms of a hip fracture include the inability to lift or put weight on the injured side.
- Labral tears- the labrum is a soft lining that functions in the stability of the hip joint. Labral tears can be the result of traumatic events most likely high impact sports or exercise. Non traumatic labral tears are often caused by a genetic change to the bones. Meaning there is some form of overgrowth which causes a shearing on the labrum resulting in a tear.
And how Physical Therapy CAN HELP…
All hip conditions can benefit from PT services to address flexibility, joint mobility, ROM and strength to help you get back to pain free living or recreational activity/sport.
Physical therapists here at Loudoun Sports Therapy Center can evaluate and determine the source of your pain to derive a physical therapy program based around you!
