Hip pain

Hip Pain

Hip pain is a common complaint that can be caused by a wide range of problems. The precise location of your hip pain can provide valuable clues about the underlying cause. Problems within the hip joint itself tend to result in pain on the inside of your hip or your groin. Hip pain on the outside of your hip, upper thigh or outer buttock is usually caused by problems with muscles, ligaments, tendons, and other soft tissues that surround your hip joint.

Causes

Hip pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:

• Arthritis: Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are among the most common causes of hip pain, especially in older adults. Arthritis leads to inflammation of the hip joint and the breakdown of the cartilage that cushions your hip bones. The pain gradually gets worse. People may also have stiffness and reduced range of motion in the hip.
• Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae, which are fluid-filled sacs located between tissues such as bone, muscles, and tendons. They decrease rubbing, friction, and irritation. Bursitis is often caused by repetitive activities that overwork or irritate the hip joint.
• Tendinitis: Tendons are the thick bands of tissue that attach bones to muscles. Tendinitis is inflammation or irritation of the tendons and is usually caused by repetitive stress from overuse.
• Muscle or tendon strain: Repeated activities can put strain on the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that support the hips. When these structures become inflamed, swollen, or torn, they can cause pain.
• Hip fractures: With age, the bones can become weak and brittle. Weakened bones are more likely to break during a fall.
• Labral tear: The labrum is a ring of cartilage that surrounds the outside rim of the socket of your hip joint. Athletic injuries can lead to labral tears of the hip.
• Osteonecrosis: Also known as avascular necrosis, this condition occurs when blood flow to the hip bone decreases and the bone tissue dies.

Symptoms

Symptoms of hip pain depend on the condition that's causing it. These might include:

• Pain in the hip, groin, thigh or knee
• Stiffness
• Swelling and tenderness
• Reduced range of motion

Diagnosis

To diagnose hip pain, a doctor will conduct a physical examination and may also recommend:

• X-rays
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Computed tomography (CT) scan
• Blood tests

Treatment

Treatment for hip pain may include:

• Rest and avoiding activities that aggravate the condition
• Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications
• Physical therapy
• Surgery, in severe cases

Prevention

Preventive measures for hip pain include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Staying active, with a focus on exercises that strengthen the muscles around the hip
• Avoiding repetitive stress on the hip
• Using proper techniques during exercise and sports