Hip Pain Causes
Hip pain causes range from the wear-and-tear of arthritis, injury, pinched nerves, and other medical issues. Osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease, is often associated with aging and generally requires management for symptom relief. While osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of hip pain, there are other types of arthritis that can affect mobility and result in severe discomfort, including:
- Rheumatoid arthritis: A chronic inflammatory disorder can impact the hip joint lining and other body parts, leading to swelling and joint deformities.
- Psoriatic arthritis: This type of arthritis affects patients diagnosed with psoriasis, a chronic skin disease characterized by patches and scaling. Hip pain symptoms of this condition include swelling, stiffness, and joint pain.
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis: Primarily affecting children and teenagers, hip pain symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. Some children may outgrow it.
Trauma, like falls or motor vehicle accidents, is another one of the top hip pain causes. Issues in the lower back or another part of the body may also result in hip pain. This type of hip pain is called “referred pain.” Infection in the bones or joints is among other potential causes of hip pain. Hernias can radiate pain to the hip.
Common Hip Problems and Conditions
When it comes to hip problems, you want the most advanced treatment available. That is what you will find at HOI. Our experts are extensively trained at treating a wide range of hip conditions using the latest in technology and the least invasive treatments possible, including:
Hip Pain Diagnosis
Your specific hip pain symptoms may provide clues as to your hip problem. For instance, hip pain emanating from the outside of the hip usually relates to soft tissue injuries. When the hip joint is affected, pain is frequently felt on the inside of your hip or groin.
A hip pain diagnosis generally begins with the doctor taking your medical history and performing a physical examination. If you are mobile, the doctor will also observe the way you walk. They will also establish your current range of motion pertaining to the hip. When the hip pain bothers you most, such as after activity, it offers clues as to the nature of your hip condition.
Patients can expect to undergo various tests to pinpoint the exact cause of their hip pain. Such tests may include:
- X-rays
- Ultrasounds
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)