Hip pain is a common issue affecting nearly 76 million people in the United States each year1. It is not uncommon for people to live with hip pain for an extended period before seeking treatment. Hip pain can be a symptom of a serious condition and often requires a trip to the doctor. Let us discuss some common causes of hip pain and what symptoms indicate the need for medical attention.
Common causes of hip pain
Osteoarthritis: Affects nearly a million people worldwide and is the most common form of arthritis 2. Over time, the protective cartilage wears down on the ends of the bone, damaging the joints and causing pain and discomfort.
Inflammatory Arthritis - Inflammatory arthritis is the name used to describe a group of diseases caused by an overactive immune system that results in inflammation attacking healthy tissue creating soreness and swelling in the joints.
Fracture - As our bones begin to weaken (osteoporosis) with age, fractures are more likely to occur. With a hip fracture, people typically experience pain in the groin and outer portion of the upper thigh and is typically the result of a fall.
Bursitis - Inflammation of the bursae, the jelly-like substance positioned between bone and soft tissue, creates chronic pain in the hip.
When to see a doctor
- Pain and stiffness from your hip interfere with daily living
- Unable to move or put weight on the affected leg
- Warmth over the hip or leg
- Deformity of the hip
- Leg or foot weakness
- Experience sudden swelling or intense pain in the hip
- Home treatments like rest, ice, heat, or over-the-counter pain medications failed to improve your symptoms
Do not settle for living with chronic hip pain. Schedule an in depth consultation for your hip pain today with Dr. DiPaolo.
Dr. Daneca DiPaolo is a highly skilled, board certified orthopedic surgeon and hand specialist located in Grenada, Mississippi. She offers the latest orthopedic techniques and provides quality, compassionate, state of the art orthopedic care. For all appointments and inquiries, please call (662) 227-7794 or visit our website www.drdipaolo.com
