Hip pain is a common health problem which affects adults and seniors alike. Whether it starts with overuse of the joint, degenerative arthritis, or injury due to a fall, hip pain impedes quality of life. If you or a loved one have hip pain, make sure you understand when to seek help from an orthopedic (or ortho) doctor.
Let’s explore the treatment options available for hip pain and when to consider this surgery.
Who Suffers from Hip Pain?
Hip pain can affect people of all ages and walks of life. However, it is particularly prevalent among adults and seniors.
Factors such as excess body weight, age, genetics and traumatic injury can contribute to the onset of life-limiting hip pain. Pinched nerves, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, and other chronic health conditions also may lead to hip discomfort and problems with movement.
People with hip pain often face challenges in mobility and accomplishing everyday activities at home and on the job. So, it is important to address the issue with an orthopedic specialist promptly.
What Other Symptoms Come with Hip Pain?
Aside from the joint pain experienced during weight-bearing activities – such as lifting and walking – hip problems may be accompanied by:
- Limping due to discomfort and/or joint stiffness.
- Poor range of motion and reduced flexibility in the hip.
- Difficulty participating in favorite sports and recreational activities.
These joint symptoms can vary in severity. That said, you should not ignore hip pain and other signs of joint disease and dysfunction. You do not want them to progress beyond what you can manage. Plus, you want your daily life as normal as possible.
How Will an Orthopedic Doctor Evaluate My Hip Pain?
An orthopedic (ortho) doctor plays a vital role in accurately diagnosing and treating hip pain. During an in-clinic evaluation, your orthopedic specialist will:
- Discuss your hip pain and any accompanying symptoms (be specific about their intensity, location and impact on your daily life).
- Observe how you walk and also the range of motion in your affected leg.
- Utilize imaging techniques such as MRI, CT scans, or digital X-rays to gain a comprehensive view of your hip’s structure and health.
This thorough in-office evaluation will help your bone doctor formulate an accurate diagnosis and an effective and accurate treatment plan. Typically, most treatment plans are multi-faceted, combining a number of care options for best results.
What Can I Do About My Hip Pain?
Managing hip pain often begins with non-surgical approaches as suggested by your orthopedic doctor. They may include:
- Medication. Over-the-counter pain relievers, cortisone injections or hyaluronic acid injections (joint lubricants) to reduce inflammation and discomfort
- Physical therapy. Tailored exercises, heat therapy, massage, and assistive devices to strengthen the hip joint and improve its function and level of comfort
- Lifestyle changes. Such as weight loss, regular aerobic exercise, and smoking cessation to enhance overall health
These conservative measures typically are the first line of defense in managing hip pain. Plus, lifestyle changes can be good preventive measures, ensuring better joint health in the long term.
Do I Need Hip Surgery?
You and your orthopedic doctor may consider hip surgery if conservative treatments fail to provide lasting pain relief or improvement in hip function. Surgical options include the following:
- Hip replacement for advanced osteoarthritis and its characteristic bone-on-bone pain.
- Arthroscopic (small incision) surgery for addressing issues such as tears in the labrum, the cartilage around the hip socket.
- Hip joint resurfacing, to revise the lining of the hip joint for smoother function.
Your orthopedic (ortho) doctor will recommend surgery based on your overall health, treatment goals and specific diagnosis. It is very important to consult with a hip expert to determine the course of action most appropriate for you.
Your Orthopedic Clinic in San Antonio, TX
For those contemplating hip surgery or seeking expert advice on managing hip pain, the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine in San Antonio, TX, offers comprehensive consultations. Dr. Raymond Skunda specializes in minimally invasive hip and knee replacements and can provide the guidance you need.
Our an physicians are trained in the most advanced techniques available today and are committed to your healing and full recovery.
To learn more about hip pain treatment options or to schedule a personalized consultation, contact us at (210) 692-7400 or use our appointment request form.
Don’t live with hip pain. Reach out to our orthopedic clinic today for a path to improved mobility and comfort.
