Hip pain is a common complaint which can be caused by different types of problems. The exact location of hip pain is helpful as it gives important information about the core cause of the pain.
Problems that occur within the hip joint itself are likely to cause pain within the hip or groin. Hip pains outside the hip, upper thighs or outer buttocks usually occur as a result of problems with the muscles, ligaments, tendons, and other soft tissue surrounding the hip joints. In some cases, hip pain can occur as a result of diseases and conditions in other parts of your body, such as the lower back.
What are the Causes of Hip Pain?
Here are some of the conditions that often cause hip pain:
1. Arthritis. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the two types of arthritis which have been known to result in hip pain; this is common among elderly individuals. Arthritis causes inflammation of the hip joint and collapse of the cartilage that lubricates the hip bone. The pain progressively worsens. Individuals affected with arthritis also experience stiffness and decreased hip mobility.
2. Hip fractures. As you grow older, the bones can become weak and fragile. During a fall, weaker bones are likely to break easily.
3. Bursitis. Bursa is a small fluid-filled sac which is located between the tissues such as bone, muscle, and tendons. They reduce the friction of these tissues rubbing together. Inflammation of the bursae results in pain. Inflammation of the bursa usually occurs as a result of recurrent activities that involve an excessive use or irritation of the hip joint.
4. Tendinitis Tendons are a thick band of tissue that binds bone to the muscles. Inflammation or irritation of the tendon is known as tendinitis. This is usually caused by recurring stress due to excessive use.
5. Muscle or tendon strain. Repetitive activities can put a strain on the muscles, tendons, and ligaments which are supportive to the hips. When they become inflamed as a result of excessive use, they can lead to pain and prevent the normal function of the hip.
6. Cancers. Tumors that begin in the bone or that radiates to the bone can cause pain in the hips, as well as in other bone of the body.
7. Avascular necrosis. This is also referred to as osteonecrosis. This condition occurs when the flow of blood to the bone is slow which result in the death of the tissues. Although it may affect other bones, avascular necrosis commonly occurs in the hip. It can occur as a result of a hip fracture or dislocation or long-term use of high-dose steroids for example prednisone, among others.
What are the Symptoms of Hip Pain?
Depending on the condition that causes hip pain, affected individuals can experience pains in the following parts of the body:
• Thigh
• Inside of the hip joint
• Groin
• Outside of the hip joint
• Buttocks
In some cases, pains from other parts of the body for example back or groin can spread to the hip.
Affected individuals can observe that the pains become worsen due to activity, most especially when arthritis is the core cause. With pain, you may have reduced movement. Some individuals develop a limp because of persistent hip pain.
Hip Pain Treatment
Treatment for Hip Pain requires restoring the circulation and blood flow to the affected structures in your hip. Pain is caused when swelling, inflammation and decreased circulation generate a blockage, which causes blood flow to be interrupted or slowed. Treatment for this issue requires breaking up the accumulated fluids in your hip to allow for improved healing and quicker recovery.
Products recommended for symptoms of swelling, redness, pain, and inflammation, and if coolness makes your pain feel better:
Ice Substitute Poultice
Bruise Relief Liniment
Muscle Therapy Massage Oil
Products recommended when swelling and inflammation are gone, but you still feel pain, stiffness, weakness, and/or sensitivity in cold and damp weather, and if heat makes your pain feel better:
Pain Relief Liniment
Muscle Therapy Massage Oil
