Hip Pain
The hip joint connects the femur (long thigh bone) with the pelvis. It is a stable joint with many muscles and ligaments crossing and surrounding the joint. Due to numerous structures around the hip joint, hip pain often requires more involved assessment to accurately discern the source of pain.
Common types of injuries
| Injury | Description |
|---|---|
| Trochanteric bursitis | Inflammation of the bursa (fat pad) that lies over the hip bone. |
| Labral tear | A small tear in the lining of the hip joint caused by ageing or a traumatic injury. |
| Osteoarthritis | Wear and tear of the joint, normally related to ageing causing pain and loss of movement in the joint. |
| Tendonitis | Inflammation of the tendon as it joins onto the bone. |
Assessment
Differential diagnosis will be performed to find out the exact source of pain so as to come up with the most appropriate and efficient treatment plan. Range of motion will also be assessed. Full range of motion at the hip joint is important so as to ensure there is ample blood supply to the entire joint.
Treatment
- Modalities such as ultrasound are used to decrease inflammation in the joint or to warm up stiff and tightened tendons.
- Manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization, traction, Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) are helpful in regaining full pain free range of motion and muscle facilitation around the joint.
- Therapeutic exercises, like Pilates, can help to stretch tight muscles/joints, and strengthen weak muscles. Exercises are also used to correct positional faults or improper loading of the hip joint during movements.
Other Common Injuries
