Where it hurts · Hip
Hip
Pain
True hip pain is often felt in the groin or thigh rather than over the side of the hip, which is why it is so frequently mistaken for a back problem.
What usuallycauses it.
- Hip osteoarthritis
- Avascular necrosis, sometimes after steroid use or heavy alcohol intake
- Labral tears and impingement in younger adults
- Fracture of the hip after a fall in older adults
- Bursitis and tendon irritation over the outer hip
Signs that need prompt review
- You cannot stand or walk after a fall
- Groin pain is limiting how far you can walk
- Putting on shoes and socks has become difficult
- The leg feels shorter, or you have developed a limp
- Night pain is disturbing sleep
Examined properly, explained plainly.
Hip rotation is measured carefully, since it is lost early in arthritis, and the spine and knee are examined to exclude referred pain. X-rays of the pelvis are usually sufficient; MRI is added where necrosis or a labral tear is suspected.
Where this leads
Joint Replacement
Knee and hip replacement planned around your own anatomy, with rehabilitation that starts on day one.
Rehabilitation
The part that decides the result: supervised, measured recovery after injury and surgery.
Questions.
I have groin pain but my back is fine. Could it still be the hip?
Yes, and that is the classic presentation. Groin and anterior thigh pain with restricted rotation usually points to the hip joint itself.
Is a hip fracture always operated on?
In almost all cases surgery, either fixation or replacement, allows earlier movement and avoids the serious complications of prolonged bed rest.
Get a clear
answer.
A single consultation is usually enough to know what is wrong and what the options are.