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Hip pain occurs in people of all ages, making it difficult to function daily and make certain movements. Sometimes the pain in the hip area is caused by overload of the locomotor system, but it can also be caused by various diseases. The ailments can be counteracted through diet and physical activity. Sometimes, however, it is necessary to undergo treatment under the supervision of a specialist.
Hip pain – causes
The soreness of the hip and its surroundings may be associated with a minor overload, but also with various diseases that require medical consultation. A slight pain after physical activity without any other accompanying symptoms, which disappears after a few days, does not have to be a cause for concern. If in doubt, however, it is better to see a doctor.
The causes of hip pain may include:
- hip overload – may be the result of too strenuous training or poorly performed exercises. In such a case, the pain should disappear spontaneously over time.
- chronic overload of the hip resulting from joint and muscle imbalance – long-term strain on the hip joint is caused by overweight, prolonged sitting, abnormal joint shape (dysplasia), leaning the body weight on one side (e.g. by limping on one leg) or muscle balance. Chronic overloading of the hip poses a risk of developing joint degeneration.
- crackling hip – the ailment can lead to pain, but only at an advanced stage of the disease.
- hip dislocation – in this case, the pain in the hip is very troublesome, there is a hematoma and swelling that grows rapidly, and sometimes there is loss of sensation in the foot.
- fracture of the pelvic bone or femur – such injuries require medical attention. Pelvic fractures are particularly serious as they can cause additional damage to internal organs.
- inflammation of the hip joint – occurs as a result of infection (e.g. after surgery), rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis, or developing osteoarthritis. The inflammation causes pain in the hip and groin and can radiate to the knee. It is also accompanied by other symptoms, including fever, malaise, and sometimes swelling.
- Sciatica – pressure on the sciatic nerve causes severe pain in the lumbar region that radiates to the buttock and back of the thigh towards the foot.
- aseptic necrosis of the femoral head – also known as Perthes’ disease, stiffness and pain in the hip and reduced mobility are among its symptoms. It usually affects children, especially boys from the age of 7.
- osteoporosis – contributes to a significant weakening of the bones and numerous fractures, therefore, even with a seemingly harmless fall, bone damage is often caused, including around the hip (with particular emphasis on the femur).
Hip pain – prevention
Hip pain unrelated to major lesions can be prevented. It is important to maintain the correct body posture, exercise and diet. Risk of hip pain increases overweight and obesity, which is why reducing body weight in these cases is an important step on the way to relieve the skeletal system. Also, people who are easily overweight should take care of proper nutrition, providing the body with protein, calcium and vitamin D, as well as regular physical activity.
Hip problems people who do sitting or standing work have. This is due to staying in one position for too long, the development of excessive muscle tension and joint strain. Strengthening and stretching the muscles and increasing the flexibility of the joints makes it easier to maintain the correct posture and can reduce the existing pain. Various types of exercises are not only a preventive measure, they are also part of physiotherapy for people after injuries.
Hip pain – treatment
How hip pain is treated depends on its cause. Oral painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs as well as ointments and gels are usually recommended for minor bruises and injuries. If a different cause of pain is suspected and tests confirm this, different measures may be necessary. Sometimes injections directly into the joint, supportive therapies to alleviate the symptoms of degenerative changes, rehabilitation treatments or arthroscopy are unavoidable.