Hip Pain

Hip pain is a common complaint that can significantly impact mobility and quality of life. The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint that connects the thighbone (femur) to the pelvis, allowing for a wide range of motion while bearing the body's weight.

Hip pain can originate from within the joint itself (intra-articular) or from surrounding structures like muscles, tendons, bursae, or nerves. Common causes include hip arthritis, hip impingement, labral tears, bursitis, and fractures.

At Mountain Spine & Orthopedics, our hip specialists use comprehensive evaluation including physical examination, X-rays, MRI, and other advanced imaging to identify the exact cause of hip pain and create a personalized treatment plan that addresses both symptoms and underlying causes.

• Groin pain that may radiate to the thigh, buttock, or knee
• Stiffness and reduced range of motion, especially in the morning or after prolonged sitting
• Pain with walking, climbing stairs, or bearing weight on the affected leg
• Clicking, catching, or locking sensations during movement
• Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest
• Difficulty sleeping on the affected side
• Swelling or tenderness around the hip joint

Several factors can increase the risk of developing hip pain:

• Advancing age, which increases the likelihood of arthritis and degenerative changes
• Previous hip injuries or trauma
• Overuse from repetitive activities or high-impact sports
• Obesity, which places increased stress on the hip joint
• Structural abnormalities such as hip dysplasia or hip impingement
• Family history of hip problems or arthritis
• Certain occupations or activities that stress the hip joint

Diagnosis begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination to assess range of motion, strength, and identify specific movements that reproduce the pain. Our specialists use various clinical tests to differentiate between different causes of hip pain.

We offer complimentary imaging including X-rays to evaluate bone structure and joint space, and MRI review to assess soft tissues like cartilage, labrum, and surrounding muscles. In some cases, CT scans or ultrasound may be used to provide additional diagnostic information and guide treatment planning.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Initial treatment typically focuses on conservative measures, including activity modification, physical therapy referrals to strengthen hip stabilizers and improve flexibility, and anti-inflammatory medications. Weight management can also significantly reduce stress on the hip joint.

Injection or Interventional Care

For patients with persistent pain, corticosteroid injections or biologic injections (such as PRP or hyaluronic acid) may provide relief by reducing inflammation and improving joint lubrication. These injections can be particularly effective for hip arthritis or bursitis.

Surgical Treatment Options

When conservative measures fail to provide adequate relief, surgical options may be considered. These range from minimally invasive procedures like hip arthroscopy for labral tears or impingement, to joint-preserving procedures, to total hip replacement for advanced arthritis.

Hip pain can vary widely in character and location depending on the underlying cause. It may present as a dull ache deep in the groin, a sharp, stabbing pain with certain movements, or a burning sensation that radiates down the thigh.

The pain often worsens with weight-bearing activities, prolonged standing, or specific movements like getting in and out of a car. Our comprehensive approach addresses both the pain symptoms and the underlying cause, providing lasting relief and restoring function.

While not all causes of hip pain can be prevented, several strategies can help reduce risk and maintain hip health:

• Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress on the hip joint
• Regular low-impact exercise to strengthen hip stabilizers and maintain flexibility
• Proper warm-up and stretching before physical activities
• Using proper technique and equipment during sports or exercise
• Addressing muscle imbalances and movement patterns through physical therapy
• Seeking early evaluation from a hip specialist when symptoms first appear
• Managing underlying conditions like arthritis or structural abnormalities proactively

If hip pain is affecting your daily activities or quality of life, schedule a consultation with Mountain Spine & Orthopedics today. Benefit from a complimentary MRI review and expert evaluation to identify the cause of your hip pain and explore treatment options. Same-day and next-day appointments are often available.