The Link Between Lower Back Pain and Hip Dysfunction

Hip discomfort and lower back pain often go hand in hand. This happens because the hips and spine share muscles, nerves, and joints that work together. Dr. Steven Zelicof, board-certified orthopaedic surgeon at Specialty Orthopaedics in Harrison, New York, can help you understand this relationship and guide you toward solutions.

Understanding the Hip-Spine Connection

Your hips and spine rely on each other to keep your body stable and moving. When the hips lose mobility because of stiffness or arthritis, the lower back has to pick up the slack. 

Over time, this extra demand can cause the muscles in your back to tire out and lead to inflammation. 

What surprises many people is how pain in one area can feel like it is coming from the other. Hip issues can trigger discomfort that spreads into the back, while back problems may show up as pain near the hips.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Problems in the hips and lower back often show up in similar ways, which can make it hard to know where the pain is starting. Some of the most common signs include:

• Stiffness in the hips that limits movement
• Reduced range of motion when bending or walking
• A dull ache that spreads to the buttocks or thighs
• Sharp pain when standing up, climbing stairs, or getting out of a chair
• Discomfort that worsens after sitting for long periods

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Surgery is not always the first step. Most patients can benefit from conservative care such as physical therapy, guided exercises, medication, or simple activity adjustments. These approaches often relieve pressure on both the hips and the spine.

For those who do not improve with non-surgical care, we use advanced options like minimally invasive surgery, hip resurfacing, or robotic-assisted joint replacement. Our team of board-certified surgeons will evaluate you carefully to recommend the right treatment plan.

Taking the Next Step

The connection between hip function and spine health is complex, but finding the right treatment does not have to be. With Specialty Orthopaedics in Harrison, NY, you have access to board-certified care close to home. Call 914-686-0111 to book an appointment.