Hip Pain

What is Hip Pain?

Although hip pain can be concerning, it is usually nothing serious and should improve without medical treatment.

 

Long-term hip pain may result from overuse or ageing of the muscles and tendons in the area. It is also possible that the pain is related to another condition, such as arthritis, which will be discussed further in the following sections.

 

If you are experiencing hip pain, our medical professionals can diagnose and treat you. Please don't wait any longer, and book an appointment with us today.

Susceptibility

Hip pain can affect anyone at any age, but as you age, the wear and tear of everyday activities may make you more likely to experience it.

 

If you are younger, you may be more likely to suffer from an injury or strain that causes hip pain. The hip joint is made to handle repeated movements; however, if you do a lot of strenuous activities or participate in a sport that demands a lot of twisting, you may be prone to hip injury and pain.

Symptoms

Hip pain may present with various symptoms depending on its underlying cause. Common signs of hip pain include difficulty walking, stiffness, pain during movement, and swelling around the joint.

 

What are the sensations associated with hip joint pain?

  • The outer hip can cause pain, spreading to the groin area, down the front of the thigh, and even to the knee.

  • Additionally, the discomfort may be felt in the buttocks.

 

See a doctor as soon as possible if:

  • If you need help with day-to-day activities, like climbing stairs.

  • There is severe pain or a worsening of the pain.

  • Your weight is also dropping unexpectedly.

  • Have hip pain and sickle cell anaemia.

  • Other joints are also experiencing pain.

 

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should go straight to A&E:

  • Your hip has been injured by a fall or another cause.

  • It may indicate septic arthritis if you have a fever or feel unwell.

  • Hips cannot support any weight.

  • You have bleeding on your leg, your leg is bruised, or your leg is deformed somehow.

See a doctor as soon as possible if:

  • The pain in your hip is bad or getting worse?

  • It's hard for you to do everyday activities like climbing stairs.

  • You're losing weight without an apparent reason.

  • You have hip pain and also have sickle cell anaemia.

  • The pain is not only in your hip but also affects other joints.

In the following cases, you should go directly to the ER

  • You had a significant fall or injured your hip in some other way.

  • You have a fever or feel generally unwell, which could be a sign of septic arthritis, a severe infection.

  • You can't put any weight on your hip.

  • Your leg is bleeding heavily, or you notice severe bruising or unusual deformity.

Associated Conditions

Hip pain may result from overuse or injury. It may, however, be caused by an underlying condition, such as:

Arthritis

Hip arthritis causes stiffness and pain in the joint, reducing mobility and range of motion. People with arthritis of the hip may require surgery to correct the inflammation caused by the condition. Hip arthritis can be caused by osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.

Fractures

As you age, your bones may become weaker and more prone to breaking (a fracture) if you experience a fall, particularly in the hip ball and socket joint. Even if you are still relatively young, a hip fracture can still occur due to an injury. If you experience sudden pain, it could be a sign that you have fractured your hip.

Hip dysplasia

An improperly shaped or shallow hip joint can lead to hip pain as it does not provide adequate support for the leg. The hip joint must be the right shape and depth to provide leg stability support and prevent discomfort.

Sprains and strain

When muscles and tendons are used too frequently, they can become stressed, resulting in an issue with the hip joint.

Avascular necrosis

Avascular necrosis, which is most common in the hip bone but can also occur in other bones, such as the thigh, is caused by insufficient blood supply to the affected area. It can be caused by a fracture or dislocation of the hip, though other causes may also exist.

Hip labral tear

A cartilage called the labrum lines the rim of the hip joint. It helps to keep the joint stable and acts as a cushion between the head of the femur and the hip socket. People who do sports involving many twisting or pivoting movements, such as football, hockey, and gymnastics, may be more likely to suffer a hip labral tear.

Cancer

Cancers originating or metastasising to the bone can lead to hip pain and discomfort.

Hip Bursitis

Suppose a bursa, a sac filled with fluid that reduces friction between moving parts of the tissue, becomes inflamed. In that case, it is essential to rest, apply ice to the area, and take anti-inflammatory medication to reduce discomfort.

 

If you are experiencing hip pain, speaking to one of our caring doctors is essential. Together, you can identify the cause of your hip pain and find the best treatment. An underlying hip condition may cause your hip pain, but it may be something else entirely. You can get help from our doctors to determine the root cause of your problem and get you on the path to recovery.

When to see a doctor for Hip Pain?

You should consult a doctor if you are experiencing hip pain or suspect a medical problem.

 

Mobi Doctor offers virtual consultations with doctors, allowing you to get the medical advice you need from the comfort of your home, workplace, or even when you're moving. Our experienced doctors can diagnose your hip pain and provide the best solution to help you get back on your feet as soon as possible.

Hip Pain Treatment

Treatment options for this condition may involve taking medication, undergoing physical therapy, or addressing any health issues contributing to the problem.

 

When you suffer from hip pain caused by muscle or tendon strain, you can take over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or paracetamol to relieve the pain. However, if these medications are ineffective, it is advisable to visit a doctor who can prescribe something more potent to manage the pain.

 

An ice pack can be applied for 15 minutes to relieve hip pain. Additionally, taking breaks throughout the day and allowing yourself to rest can help decrease the intensity of your symptoms.

 

A doctor may direct you towards a physical therapist or a hip specialist for additional care in cases of more severe hip issues. Such specialists can provide more in-depth analysis and treatment if needed.

Medication

For rheumatoid arthritis, a doctor may recommend long-term care, including medications to target the immune system and help ease symptoms. Additionally, anti-inflammatory prescription drugs may be prescribed to help manage the condition.

How we can help

Our doctors are available seven days a week to advise, diagnose and treat your hip pain. You can arrange an appointment with them at a time that suits you, and they can refer you to a specialist for further investigation or treatment if necessary.

 

Connect with one of our doctors at Mobi Doctor with the click of a button and receive the care you require.