Hip pain treatment in San Antonio

Hip Pain

What is Hip Pain?

Hip pain is any discomfort or pain experienced in or around the hip joint, which is the joint at which the thigh bone connects to the pelvis. In activities such as walking, running, and jumping, the hip joint serves as a ball-and-socket joint that allows the body to move freely and supports the weight of the body.

In addition to pain, hip injuries also cause stiffness, restricted movements, difficulty in performing routine activities, and a popping sensation.

What are the Most Common Causes of Hip Pain?

Hip pain can have a variety of underlying causes, ranging from minor issues to more serious medical conditions. Hip pain causes include (but are not limited to):

  • Osteoarthritis: This is a degenerative joint disease caused by cartilage breakdown in the hip joint. It is more common in older adults.

  • Hip fractures: Bones in the hip joint can break or fracture as a result of falls, accidents, or weak bones (osteoporosis).

  • Sciatica: When the sciatic nerve is compressed or irritated, it can cause pain that radiates from the lower back to the hip and down the leg.

  • Muscle strains or sprains: When the muscles or ligaments surrounding the hip joint are overstretched or torn, pain and discomfort can occur.

Treatment for Hip Pain

Early treatment is necessary to prevent serious hip injuries. The immediate mode of treatment recommended for hip injuries is rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Your doctor may also prescribe anti-inflammatory medications to help reduce the swelling and pain.

Your doctor may recommend certain exercises to prevent stiffness and improve your range of motion and strength. Passive manipulation and massage therapy to improve blood circulation and healing are also administered. Other techniques such as acupuncture, TENS, and ultrasound therapy may additionally be recommended.

did you know

your knee pain could be a result of a hip injury?

Most patients are shocked to learn that their hip is the problem, not their knee! How is this possible, you may ask? The fundamental structure of both joints consists of two main bones: one that serves as the 'ball' (femur for the hip, tibia for the knee) as well as another that serves as a 'socket' (acetabulum for the hip, patella for the knee). While each joint provides its own unique mechanics, they rely on mutual support structures (ligaments) to ensure they are functioning properly.

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Hip Pain Treatment in San Antonio