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Understanding Hip Pain: Causes, Treatments, and When to Seek Help

Hip pain is more than just an inconvenience—it can impact your ability to walk, sit, exercise, and even sleep comfortably. Whether the pain comes on suddenly due to an injury or develops gradually over time, it’s important to understand its causes and treatment options.

At the Orthopaedic Institute of Henderson, we specialize in diagnosing and treating hip pain with personalized care plans that help patients return to a pain-free, active lifestyle. In this blog, we’ll explore the common causes of hip pain, available treatments, and when you should consider seeing a specialist.

Common Causes of Hip Pain

Hip pain can arise from various conditions, including:

  1. Arthritis – Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are among the most common causes of chronic hip pain. They result from joint inflammation and cartilage wear, leading to stiffness and discomfort.
  2. Bursitis – Inflammation of the bursae (fluid-filled sacs that cushion the hip joint) can lead to sharp pain and tenderness.
  3. Tendonitis – Overuse or strain can cause inflammation in the tendons surrounding the hip, leading to discomfort with movement.
  4. Hip Fractures – More common in older adults, hip fractures can be extremely painful and require surgical intervention.
  5. Labral Tears – The labrum is a ring of cartilage around the hip socket that can tear due to injury or structural abnormalities.
  6. Muscle Strains and Sprains – Sports injuries, sudden movements, or overuse can strain muscles around the hip, causing pain and limited mobility.

Treatment Options for Hip Pain

The right treatment for hip pain depends on its cause and severity. Some of the most effective options include:

Non-Surgical Treatments

  • Physical Therapy – Strengthening and stretching exercises can improve mobility and reduce pain.
  • Medication – Anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers can help manage discomfort.
  • Injections – Corticosteroid injections can provide relief for inflammation-related pain.
  • Lifestyle Changes – Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding high-impact activities, and using supportive footwear can ease hip strain.

Surgical Treatments

When non-surgical treatments are not enough, surgery may be necessary.

  • Hip Arthroscopy – A minimally invasive procedure to repair labral tears or remove loose cartilage.
  • Hip Replacement – For severe arthritis or fractures, total or partial hip replacement surgery can restore function and alleviate pain.

When to See a Specialist

While occasional hip discomfort may not be a cause for concern, you should seek professional evaluation if:

  • Your pain is persistent or worsening.
  • It interferes with daily activities like walking, standing, or sleeping.
  • You experience swelling, redness, or warmth around the joint.
  • You’ve suffered an injury that makes bearing weight on the hip difficult.

FAQs

Mild hip pain from strain or overuse may improve with rest and home remedies. However, persistent or worsening pain should be evaluated by a specialist.
Low-impact activities like swimming, yoga, and specific stretching exercises can help strengthen the hip and reduce pain.
If conservative treatments aren’t providing relief and pain is affecting your quality of life, a specialist can assess whether surgery is the best option.
Yes! Maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and using proper posture can help reduce stress on your hips and prevent injuries.

Conclusion

Hip pain can be frustrating, but you don’t have to live with it. Understanding the cause of your pain and exploring the right treatment options can help you regain mobility and improve your quality of life.

At the Orthopaedic Institute of Henderson, we’re committed to helping you find the best path to relief. If hip pain is slowing you down, schedule a consultation today!

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