DOC Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine treats a range of hip conditions. Causes of hip pain may include:
Arthritis
This condition is an inflammation of the joints that leads to pain, stiffness, and swelling. Many patients develop osteoarthritis as they age and the tissues that cushion the joints begin to break down. If a person has osteoarthritis in their hip joint, they may experience joint pain or weakness, as well as a clicking sound when the joint moves.
The risk of osteoarthritis increases with age. While joint damage caused by arthritis can’t be reversed, exercise, medication, and other treatments can help minimize symptoms.
Bursitis
Bursae are sacs of fluid that cushion the bones and tendons in the hips and other joints. Repetitive motion and joint damage can cause these sacs to become inflamed, a condition known as bursitis. This can make the hip joint stiff, achy, or swollen.
Fortunately, bursitis will often go away after resting the joint and applying ice. However, some patients with bursitis will need additional treatment, such as medication or joint injections.
Strains and Sprains
A hip injury can cause the muscles and tendons to stretch or even tear. Hip strain can be caused by an acute injury, such as falling while exercising, or it may be caused by a repetitive stress injury that weakens the joint over time. A sprain or strain can lead to pain and swelling in the hip joint. Mild strains can be treated with the RICE protocol:
- Rest
- Ice
- Compression
- Elevation
Tendinitis
Overuse of the hip joint can lead to tendinitis, a chronic condition in which the hip flexors become inflamed. Hip tendinitis often affects runners, cyclers, or other athletes who put excessive strain on their hip joints. Symptoms can include pain and stiffness that are often worse first thing in the morning. Conservative treatments like rest, medication, and physical therapy are often sufficient to alleviate tendinitis.
Fractures
Hip fractures often happen because of an accident like a car crash or a severe fall. Older adults are at higher risk of hip fracture, especially if they have osteoporosis. But unlike a broken arm or leg, the upper femur near the hip cannot be immobilized with a cast – a hip fracture nearly always requires surgery. An X-ray or other imaging test can confirm the presence of a fracture.
Avascular Necrosis
This condition develops when the body’s blood supply to the bone is temporarily or permanently cut off. Avascular necrosis can develop as a result of injury, chronic medical conditions, or long-term use of certain medications or alcohol. A patient with avascular necrosis may not notice any symptoms at first, but as bone tissue dies, the hip joint can begin to collapse.
