The hip is the largest ball and socket joint in the body. We use our hips for walking, running, standing, sitting… in fact many different types of movement throughout our day-to-day life. So, when we start to develop hip pain it can be quite a challenge.
In this article we’ll look at some common causes of hip pain and ask when it’s time to see an orthopaedic specialist, how they might diagnose you and what type of treatment you might be offered.
Symptoms of hip pain
The first thing to consider is what symptoms you might experience. Depending what is causing the problem, alongside pain or stiffness on the inside or outside of the hips, you might also experience pain in the thighs, groin or buttocks. Sometimes, pain from other parts of the body, such as the back, can radiate to the hip. You might notice certain activities make the pain worse – for example, walking or climbing stairs or being immobile for an extended period of time. You may also find that the pain in your hips limits your range of motion and this can impact your quality of life.
Common causes of hip pain
There can be many different causes of hip pain, ranging from minor injuries to serious health conditions. Among the most common reasons are:
- Hip osteoarthritis – This is the result of damage to the cartilage that cushions the hip bones. As it wears away, you may experience worsening pain and stiffness.
- Hip bursitis – This occurs when the bursae, which are sacs of liquid that prevent the tissues from rubbing together, become inflamed. This is normally the result of overusing the joint by making repetitive movements.
- Hip fracture – This can be the result of a traumatic injury, such as falling heavily onto your hip, or a stress fracture due to overworking the joint. The latter is most common in sports.
- Hip labral tear – The labrum is the ring of cartilage that goes around the rim of the hip socket, helping to hold the ball at the top of your thighbone securely within the socket. It can become torn as the result of making repeated twisting movements and this is a common sporting injury.
- Sciatica – The sciatic nerve, which runs through your buttock and hip, can become irritated or injured resulting in hip pain that can radiate down your leg.
- Muscle or tendon strain – The muscles, tendons and ligaments that support the hips can become inflamed due to overuse or because they are too tight.
At-home treatments for hip pain
For mild to moderate hip pain, try over-the-counter anti-inflammatories or painkillers. If you have sustained a sporting injury, use the RICE method which can help to relieve symptoms. This involves:
- Rest – Try not to use your hip any more than absolutely necessary.
- Ice – Apply an ice pack to the affected area for 15 minutes, several times a day. Never apply ice directly to the skin.
- Compression – A compression wrap or shorts that maintain pressure on the affected area can be helpful.
- Elevation – Use cushions or pillows to lift your hips above the level of your heart.
You can also try a warm bath or shower which may relieve symptoms and can be an effective way to warm up your muscles before doing hip stretches. A physiotherapist can recommend a programme of stretching exercises to help prevent muscle tightness and improve your range of motion. Low impact exercises such as swimming, walking and cycling can help with hip pain and stiffness. Sleeping with a pillow between your knees can make it easier to sleep as it improves alignment in your hips.
When to see an orthopaedic specialist
Generally, we advise seeing your GP or an orthopaedic specialist if you have been experiencing hip pain for two weeks or longer and it is not relieved by any of the at-home treatments described above. It is important to seek medical advice if your hip pain is worsening or keeps recurring, if it is affecting your sleep or if it is interfering with your day-to-day activities. Hip stiffness that persists for longer than 30 minutes after you wake up should also be investigated.
See a doctor urgently if you experience severe hip pain after a fall or injury, if you have sudden, severe hip pain with no obvious cause, if your hip is swollen or feels hot, if you develop a fever or discoloured skin around the hip, or if you are unable to put weight on the affected hip.
Diagnosing your hip pain
To diagnose what is causing your hip pain, the orthopaedic specialist may send you for diagnostic tests following a physical examination. This may include an X-ray, MRI, CT scan or ultrasound. This will enable them to get a better idea of what is going on inside and around the joint that is causing your symptoms.
The treatment you are offered will depend on the cause of your hip pain. It might range from a programme of exercises recommended by a physiotherapist, through to therapeutic injections or even hip replacement surgery, which may include Mako robotic assisted hip replacement, if suitable.
If you are experiencing ongoing, undiagnosed or severe hip pain, contact us to discuss a diagnosis and possible treatment options.
Talk to an orthopaedic consultant | Cambridge
We are always happy to provide information and guidance about the various treatment options, both surgical and non-surgical, including Mako Robotic Arm Assisted Surgery and conventional surgery.
For more information, please contact us.
Our consultation fees are clearly presented here.
For your convenience, we offer appointments at both Nuffield Hospital Cambridge and Spire Cambridge Lea Hospital.
