Hip Pain

Hip pain is a common problem that can cause discomfort and inconvenience. A person’s hip is responsible for much of the movement in their lower body. Therefore, hip pain can make it difficult to walk, climb stairs, or even get out of bed.

Chronic hip pain can hinder you from accomplishing everyday functions. We can help you to address your pain symptoms.

At Cayman Neurology located in the Cayman Islands, our pain management specialists can determine the underlying cause of your hip pain and provide you with the quality healthcare you need to improve your quality of life. Call us today to schedule an appointment!

Anatomy of the Hip

The hip is a very strong joint that plays a significant part in stabilizing your body. The hip is known as a ball and socket joint. This is because the top of the thigh bone is shaped like a ball and that “ball” fits inside a hollow socket in the pelvis.

The hip joint is one of the joints in the body that has the most extensive range of motion. It is held together by muscles attached to bones, by strong cords called tendons. Muscles and tendons cover the hip joint and support all of its movement, including movement in your legs and upper body.

Inside the hip joint is the synovium, the connective tissue that lubricates the hips and keeps the cartilage in the joints healthy. Cartilage is located between the bones of your hip joint to reduce friction and impact when you walk or move. 

Different Types of Hip Pain

There are different types of hip pain that can occur in various locations in the hip. Acute hip pain is usually felt in the front or side of the hip and may be caused by an injury.

Lateral hip pain is felt on the outside of the hip and may be caused by a problem with the tendons or muscles around the hip. Long-term hip pain is usually caused by arthritis (hip osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis) and can be felt in any part of the hip.

What Are the Main Causes of Hip Pain?

There are several potential causes of hip pain. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Arthritis: Arthritis is a common cause of hip pain, particularly in older adults. Hip osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis are all types of arthritis that can affect the hips.
  • Bursitis: Bursitis occurs when the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints become inflamed. This can lead to pain and stiffness in the hip joint.
  • Tendinitis: Tendinitis is an inflammation of the tendons, which are the tissues that connect muscles to bones. This can cause pain and stiffness in the hip joint.
  • Fractures: A fracture is a break in a bone. Hip fractures are most common in older adults but can occur at any age.
  • Dislocation: A dislocation occurs when the hip joint bones are out of alignment. This can be painful and may require medical treatment.
  • Sprains and strains: A sprain is an injury to a ligament, and a strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon. Both can cause pain in the hip area.
When Should I See a Doctor for My Hip Pain?

If you’re experiencing sudden hip pain, it’s important to pay attention to your body and see a doctor if the pain is severe.

It is essential to contact your doctor if:

  • You have pain that lasts longer than a few days
  • You can’t bear any weight on the hip
  • Your hip joint appears swollen
  • You hear a popping noise from your hip joint
  • You see redness around the hip area
  • You have knee pain accompanied by hip pain (referred pain)
How Is Hip Pain Diagnosed?

The first step in diagnosing hip pain is to talk to your doctor. They will form a hip diagnosis by asking you about your medical history and symptoms and then proceed by examining your hips. Your physician may ask to see the range of motion in your affected hip joint.

Your doctor may also order X-rays or other imaging tests such as an MRI, CT scan, or ultrasound to look for problems with your hips.

How Is Hip Pain Treated?

Treatment options that lessen hip pain vary depending on the underlying cause. This may include physical therapy, medications, or surgery. Your doctor will first treat your discomfort by discovering the root cause of the issue.

After your doctor determines the root cause of the issue, then several treatment options are available, such as:

  • Nerve blocks
  • Steroid injections
  • Physical therapy
  • Surgery (hip replacement surgery)
  • Pain medication
Book an Appointment with us Today!

If you are experiencing hip pain, schedule an appointment with us at Cayman Neurology in the Cayman Islands! Our team of healthcare professionals is highly skilled in the field of pain management and sports medicine.

Our goal is to accurately diagnose your hip pain and create a customized treatment plan that can help alleviate your discomfort. Call us today to schedule an appointment!

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