Hip Pain Specialist

What is hip pain?

What people refer to as hip pain doesn’t always occur in the precise location of your hip joint. You may feel pain on the inside of your hip joint and along the groin area, or pain may affect the outer side of your hip, including the upper thigh and buttock region.

Many factors contribute to hip pain, some of which don’t involve a problem in the hip itself. In some cases, problems with the spine or knees can lead to hip pain. 

What causes hip pain?

At The Spine and Sports Center, Dr. Benny treats a variety of conditions that cause hip pain, including:

Arthritis

The hip is the most common joint to develop osteoarthritis. This condition occurs when the cartilage that covers your bones wears down over time and leads to bone grinding against bone.

Soft tissue injuries

Ligament sprains, muscle strains, and tendinitis are common causes of pain on the outer side of your hip.

Fractures

Hip fractures are most common in older adults, especially those with osteoporosis. This condition causes your bones to become so weak and brittle that they can break with little or no force.

Spine problems

Problems in your lower spine, such as a pinched nerve (radiculopathy), can cause pain to radiate into your hip. Common causes of radiculopathy include herniated discs and bone spurs.

Other hip problems

Other common causes of hip pain include osteonecrosis and bursitis. Also called avascular necrosis, osteonecrosis occurs when the blood supply to your hip bone gets cut off. This causes tissues to die, which leads to hip pain. Hip bursitis occurs when the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) in your hip are irritated and inflamed. 

How is hip pain treated?

First, Dr. Benny thoroughly reviews your symptoms and medical history and performs a physical exam. He may take tests, such as an X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan.

Then, Dr. Benny discusses your best options for treatment. Depending on the cause of your hip pain, treatment may include:

• Physical therapy
• Massage therapy
• Icing the hip
• Stretches and strengthening exercises
• Pain-relieving medications
• Corticosteroid injections
• Lifestyle changes, such as weight loss

If your hip pain lingers and interferes with your normal routine despite treatment, surgery may be necessary. 

For expert care of hip pain, call The Spine and Sports Center or book an appointment online today.