Causes of Hip Pain

Many people think that hip pain is just something that comes along with age; however, hip pain can strike people of just about any age, and there are quite a few causes besides just “getting old.” The hip joint was built for fluid movement and durability – it is in use almost constantly, after all – but that doesn’t mean it can’t be injured, damaged, or just wear down over time. If you are having hip pain, it is important to know what is causing this pain, so you can find some relief.

What are some causes of hip pain?

Hip pain can be caused by many things:

• It may be caused by bursitis, an inflammation of the sacs of liquid between bone, tendons, and muscles. These sacs help to ease friction caused when these tissues rub together.
• A hip labral tear, a tear in the cartilage along the edge of the hip joint socket, is common in people who perform repetitive twisting movements, such as athletes. This is often a cause of hip pain in younger patients.
• Tendinitis occurs when the tendon, which attaches bone to muscle, becomes inflamed. This can happen because of overuse.
• Arthritis, which occurs when the hip joint is inflamed and the cartilage between the hip joint and the thigh bone wears away, is a common hip problem. There are different types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, which is common in older people, and rheumatoid arthritis, which can affect people of all ages.

What are some treatments for hip pain?

If you think your hip pain may be caused by muscle or tendon strain, you can try over-the-counter pain medication and holding an ice pack on the hip for about 10 minutes a few times a day. However, if your hip pain persists, it is important to have a diagnosis from a doctor so it can be treated properly. Treatments for serious hip problems range from medication and lifestyle adjustments to hip replacement surgery.

Hip pain is not easy to live with – and you don’t have to! Specialty Orthopaedics in Harrison, New York, can help. Call 914-686-0111 to make an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists today!