Snapshot
Hip joint is a ball and socket joint of thigh bone and hip socket.
Causes: arthritis, injury, abnormal anatomy, age-related wear and tear.
Diagnosis: X-ray, visit to doctor or emergency department.
Conservative treatment: rest, activity modification, diet, exercise, medication, injections.
Severe cases may need referral to orthopedic surgeon.
Work with a medical professional for proper treatment.
Understanding Hip Pain and the Anatomy of Your Hip
Hip (groin) pain is a common issue among patients of all ages, but it can be especially frustrating when it affects your daily activities. At times, patients are confused regarding where the hip joint is located with respect to their anatomy. Your hip is actually located in the front of your groin.
More specifically the hip joint is what we call a ball and socket joint that is composed of the head of the femur (thigh bone) and the acetabulum (hip socket). The hip joint allows for a wide range of movement and is one of the most important joints in the body.
What are some causes of hip pain?
Arthritis
Injury
Abnormal anatomy at birth (dysplasia)
Age-related wear and tear
Diagnosing the Cause of Your Hip Pain
If you start experiencing hip pain, the first step is typically to schedule a visit with your primary care doctor. If the hip is extremely painful, some patients may even go to an emergency department. Typically an X-ray will be ordered to evaluate what may be causing your pain. An X-ray can show signs of arthritis, but there are many other causes of hip pain that may not be seen on an X-ray.
Treating Hip Pain with Conservative Measures
If your primary care doctor determines that your hip pain is caused by arthritis, they may treat you with conservative measures. Conservative treatment includes rest, activity modification, diet, exercise, anti-inflammatories, or cortisone injections. These measures can help to reduce your pain and improve your quality of life without the necessity of surgery.
Some conservative treatment options for hip pain:
Rest
Weight loss
Activity modification
Physical therapy
Anti-inflammatory medication
Steroid injections
When to See an Orthopedic Surgeon for Hip Pain
If your hip pain becomes too severe for your primary care physician or non-operative sports medicine doctor to treat with conservative measures, they may refer you to an orthopedic surgeon. This is where you will have a discussion about your options, including whether surgery is a good option for you. Working with a medical professional is the best way to determine the right course of treatment for your hip pain.
Making the Right Decision for Your Hip Pain
When it comes to hip pain, there are many factors to consider. From diagnosing the cause of your pain to exploring your treatment options, it's important to work with a trusted medical professional who can help guide you through the process. If you're experiencing hip pain, don't wait to get help. If you are curious about the options you have, reach out below and we will get back to you to schedule an appointment. Together we can discuss what options are best for you!
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