Whether you’re an athlete or a retiree, hip pain can be both frustrating and limiting, impacting your ability to perform daily activities and enjoy life to the fullest. Understanding the causes of hip pain, how it is diagnosed, and the treatment options available can make a significant difference in managing symptoms and improving quality of life. 

At Orthopedic Centers of Colorado, our Colorado orthopedic specialists are here to help you find the best solutions for your hip pain, from diagnosis through recovery.

Understanding the Causes of Hip Pain

The hip joint is a complex, weight-bearing joint that supports much of the body’s movement and stability. Various conditions, injuries, and lifestyle factors can lead to hip pain, and understanding the source of the pain is the first step toward finding relief. 

Some of the most common causes of hip pain include:

1. Arthritis

Arthritis is one of the most common causes of hip pain, particularly among older adults. Osteoarthritis, the most prevalent form, results from the gradual breakdown of cartilage within the joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder, can also affect the hip joint, causing inflammation and pain.

2. Hip Fractures

Hip fractures are often caused by trauma, such as falls, and are more common among older adults with weakened bones due to osteoporosis. These fractures can cause intense pain, swelling, and an inability to bear weight on the affected leg. Immediate medical attention is crucial for hip fractures, as they typically require surgical intervention.

3. Tendonitis

Tendonitis is the inflammation of the tendons around the hip joint, often resulting from repetitive motion or overuse. Athletes, runners, and those who engage in repetitive activities may develop hip tendonitis, which can cause localized pain and tenderness.

4. Bursitis

The hip contains small fluid-filled sacs known as bursae, which cushion the joints and reduce friction. When these bursae become inflamed, it leads to bursitis, causing pain and discomfort, particularly with movement. Hip bursitis is often linked to repetitive stress or injuries.

5. Labral Tears

The hip labrum is a ring of cartilage that surrounds the hip socket, providing stability and cushioning to the joint. Labral tears can occur due to sports injuries, structural abnormalities, or degeneration, leading to pain, stiffness, and a clicking or locking sensation in the hip.

6. Muscle Strains and Sprains

Strained muscles around the hip can cause significant discomfort and limited mobility. Overstretching, improper form during exercise, or sudden movements can lead to muscle strains, which are often characterized by sharp pain, swelling, and bruising.

7. Hip Impingement (Femoroacetabular Impingement)

Hip impingement, or femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), occurs when there is abnormal contact between the hip bones, leading to friction and damage over time. FAI is often associated with hip pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion, especially in younger, active individuals.

Diagnosing Hip Pain

Accurate diagnosis is essential to developing an effective treatment plan for hip pain. At Orthopedic Centers of Colorado, our orthopedic specialists use a comprehensive approach to diagnose the underlying cause of your hip pain.

1. Medical History and Physical Examination

The diagnostic process often begins with a thorough medical history, including questions about the onset, duration, and nature of your pain. The physician will also perform a physical examination to assess your range of motion, joint stability, and areas of tenderness or swelling.

2. Imaging Studies

To get a clearer picture of what’s happening inside the hip joint, imaging studies are commonly used, including:

  • X-rays: X-rays are typically the first imaging test used to assess bone structure, detect fractures, and check for signs of arthritis.
  • MRI Scans: MRI scans provide detailed images of soft tissues, including tendons, muscles, and cartilage, making them useful for diagnosing labral tears, tendonitis, and other soft tissue injuries.
  • CT Scans: CT scans offer cross-sectional images of the hip joint, which can help diagnose complex fractures and other structural abnormalities.
  • Ultrasound: Ultrasound is sometimes used to visualize soft tissue structures and guide injections for pain relief.

3. Lab Tests

In cases where hip pain may be due to an inflammatory condition like rheumatoid arthritis, lab tests can be helpful. Blood tests may be ordered to check for markers of inflammation, infection, or autoimmune disorders.

4. Joint Aspiration

If there is suspected infection or inflammation in the hip joint, your physician may perform joint aspiration, a procedure where fluid is drawn from the joint for testing. This test can help diagnose infections, gout, and other inflammatory conditions.

Treatment Options for Hip Pain

Once a diagnosis is established, an orthopedic specialist will tailor a treatment plan based on the specific cause and severity of your hip pain. Treatment options range from conservative, non-invasive methods to surgical interventions when necessary.

1. Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatments

  • Physical Therapy: Physical therapy is often one of the first lines of treatment for hip pain. It involves exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding the hip joint, improve flexibility, and increase stability. A physical therapist can also provide guidance on proper posture and body mechanics to reduce strain on the hip.
  • Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly prescribed to relieve pain and inflammation. In cases of severe arthritis or inflammatory conditions, corticosteroid injections may be administered for more immediate relief.
  • Activity Modification: Adjusting activities that worsen hip pain can make a significant difference in managing symptoms. Reducing high-impact exercises, like running, and incorporating low-impact activities, like swimming or cycling, can help alleviate stress on the hip joint.
  • Assistive Devices: For those with severe hip pain, assistive devices like canes or crutches can help reduce weight-bearing on the hip, allowing it time to heal.

2. Minimally Invasive Procedures

  • Hip Arthroscopy: Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure often used to treat labral tears, hip impingement, and cartilage damage. During this procedure, a small camera is inserted into the hip joint, allowing the surgeon to make repairs through tiny incisions.
  • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP therapy involves injecting a concentrated solution of your own blood platelets into the affected area to promote healing and reduce inflammation. This treatment has shown promise for certain types of hip injuries and can be an option for those seeking non-surgical alternatives.

3. Surgical Options

  • Total Hip Replacement: For patients with severe arthritis or significant hip joint damage, total hip replacement may be recommended. This procedure involves removing the damaged hip joint and replacing it with an artificial joint. Colorado orthopedic specialists at OCC Ortho are skilled in minimally invasive hip replacement techniques that reduce recovery time and improve outcomes.
  • Hip Resurfacing: Hip resurfacing is an alternative to total hip replacement for younger, active patients. Instead of replacing the entire hip joint, this procedure reshapes the damaged surface of the femoral head and places a metal cap over it. Hip resurfacing can preserve more of the natural bone and may be a good option for individuals with certain types of arthritis.

Preventing Hip Pain and Maintaining Joint Health

While not all causes of hip pain are preventable, taking proactive steps can help you maintain hip joint health and reduce the risk of injury. Here are some preventive measures recommended by Colorado orthopedic specialists:

  1. Stay Active: Regular physical activity strengthens the muscles around the hip joint, providing better support and reducing strain on the joint. Low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, and walking can be especially beneficial.
  2. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess body weight adds stress to the hip joint, increasing the risk of arthritis and injury. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can reduce pressure on the hip and improve overall joint health.
  3. Practice Good Posture: Proper posture when standing, sitting, and lifting can prevent undue strain on the hips and lower back. Be mindful of your posture, especially if you sit for extended periods or lift heavy objects regularly.
  4. Wear Supportive Footwear: Wearing shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning can help reduce stress on your hips and lower back. Avoid high heels and opt for supportive shoes, especially during activities that involve prolonged standing or walking.

Trust OCC Ortho for Your Hip Pain Needs

Whether you’re experiencing mild discomfort or severe pain, Orthopedic Centers of Colorado (OCC Ortho) offers expert care to address hip pain and other orthopedic conditions. Our Colorado orthopedic specialists are dedicated to providing personalized care, ensuring that every patient receives the treatment that best meets their needs.

Contact OCC Ortho today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a pain-free life.