What You Need to Know About Hip Pain

Hip pain is a prevalent health condition. Although it affects both genders, it is more common in women than men. If not controlled hip pain Myrtle Beach can lead to functional disability. Some people are more likely to develop the problem, especially those who play sports. Sports injuries account for over 40% of chronic hip pain cases. Other leading causes of hip pain include synovitis and hip joint labral injuries and more.

Below are the risk factors, and treatment options for hip pain:

What are the causes of hip pain?

Hip fractures

Hip fractures are the most common cause of osteoarthritis and pain in the hip joint. They can be caused by an accident, such as falling down the stairs; from an abnormal movement, such as twisting the hip, or falling on an outstretched leg. Hip fractures can also result from a blow to the front of the body (an acute fracture).

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH)

ONFH is a condition that occurs when there is damage to the femoral head (the ball-shaped top of your thigh bone). This can result from infection, injury, or osteoporosis (a condition in which bones become thinner and more fragile). ONFH can cause inflammation around your hip bone that leads to pain and swelling between your bone and muscle tissue.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that affects the bony structures of the joints (pulleys). It is common in older people, especially those over age 50, and causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in the affected joints including hip joints. Osteoarthritis can result from lifestyle choices such as heavy lifting or an unhealthy diet.

Hip infection

Hip infection is a common cause of hip pain in people over age 50. Hip infections are usually caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses that enter the bloodstream from other parts of the body and travel to the hip joint through the bloodstream. Some people who have a hip infection may not have any symptoms at all, while others may experience fever and chills, nausea, or painful redness or swelling in their hip joints.

What is the best treatment for hip pain?

Exercise

Exercise is another way to treat hip pain, especially if it is a chronic condition that requires regular treatment to keep symptoms under control. The goal of exercise is to help strengthen muscles around your hip joint and increase your range of motion. This can help reduce stress on your hips and get rid of any muscle tenderness in the area.

Physical therapy

Physical therapy is the most common treatment for hip pain and is ideal for people who have had a hip injury or surgery. A physical therapist will work with you to rehabilitate your hip and improve function so that you can return to your normal activities as soon as possible. If a physical therapist determines that you need surgery, he or she will then refer you to an orthopedic surgeon for further evaluation and treatment.

To get treatment for your hip pain, contact United Physician Group.