The hip is one of the body’s largest weight-bearing joints. It is reinforced by bones, ligaments, and heavy musculature, which make it capable of withstanding a fair amount of pressure.
Even with its strength and durability, the hip is not invulnerable. Disease (e.g., hip arthritis), aging, and injury can all contribute to its damage and deterioration, both of which can cause hip pain.
If you’re experiencing hip pain, you may be inclined to try to address it with self-care measures or at-home remedies. While those might help in some cases, there are those that warrant proper medical intervention.
When to Visit an Orthopedic Doctor
If you’re experiencing any or a combination of the following symptoms, it helps to see an orthopedic doctor, as these are indicative of an underlying problem that requires prompt treatment to prevent complications.
- Crepitus (popping or grating sensation)
- Deformity
- Difficulty bearing weight
- Pain has become chronic (lasted for more than several weeks)
- Problems with your gait (limping)
- Reduced function or range of motion
- Severe and nagging pain (especially if it’s disrupting your sleep and overall quality of life)
- Swelling
- Symptoms not alleviated with self-care measures and over-the-counter pain medications
How an Orthopedic Doctor Can Help with Your Hip Pain
An orthopedic doctor specializes in the diagnoses, treatment, and prevention of injuries and conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system: the bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage.
To pinpoint the cause of your hip pain, your orthopedic doctor will perform a thorough evaluation— which includes a review of your medical history and current health status, a physical exam, and imaging and other diagnostic tests.
Once a diagnosis is confirmed, your orthopedic doctor will typically start with conservative interventions to attempt to relieve your pain and help you regain your normal function.
Nonsurgical treatment approaches for hip pain include:
- Hyaluronic injections
- Lifestyle recommendations, such as losing weight to relieve stress on your hip
- Physical therapy
- Prescription pain relievers
- Steroid injections
- Ultrasound-guided injections
If none of these provide effective relief, your orthopedic doctor will likely discuss with you about the possibility of surgery. The following are some of the common types of surgery done to address the causes of chronic hip pain.
- Arthroscopy
- Hip replacement surgery
- Joint resurfacing
- Osteotomy
- Synovectomy
Your orthopedic doctor will also devise a rehabilitation plan to help you safely and successfully return to your normal activities.
Orthopedic Doctor in San Antonio, TX
At the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, our team consists of board-certified orthopedic doctors who have spent most of their career helping the residents of San Antonio and the neighboring areas successfully manage or even conquer their musculoskeletal condition and live their best lives.
To make an appointment with one of our orthopedic doctors, call our office at (210) 692-7400. Alternatively, you can request an appointment online.
