Colorado Springs Orthopedic News

Hip

Understanding And Treating Hip Pain

To understand hip pain, it’s key to understand how the hip functions. The hip is an extremely strong and amazingly flexible ball and socket joint, whose primary function is to support the weight of the body. It allows the leg to move back and forth, out to the side and back in. It facilitates the toes pointing inward or outward, then moving the straightened leg in the direction of the toes.

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are among the most common causes of hip pain, especially in older adults. Other causes can be bursitis, tendonitis, bone fracture, muscle spasms and strains. Hip pain can also result from disorders causing pain that radiates from the spine and back, such as sciatica and herniated discs.

Depending on the condition that is causing the pain, there may be discomfort in the thigh, inside of the hip joint, groin, outside of the hip joint and buttocks. Some people develop a limp from persistent hip pain. Everyone’s degree of hip pain is different and can cause different degrees of immobility.

Most hip pain gets better with self-care. RICE-rest, ice, compression, elevation, is the first course of action. Pain relievers like ibuprofen, acetaminophen and naproxen could help. Even gentle exercise like swimming or stretching followed by a warm bath can reduce hip pain.

But in some cases, hip pain can seem to worsen with activity which can hinder the ability to participate in sports or even just get through a normal day. It could get to the point where it interferes not just with activities like walking or climbing stairs, but getting in and out of chairs and even bathtubs. Sometimes the pain is severe enough to interfere with sleep.

This is the time to consult with the leaders in orthopedic care in Colorado and the Rocky Mountains; Advanced Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Specialists. The highly skilled and extensively trained hip doctors and surgeons at Advanced Ortho are highly sought after for their incomparable ability to diagnose and treat even the most complicated and rare conditions using the latest advances in technology.

After a detailed medical history and a thorough exam, an x-ray, CT scan, or MRI may be taken at one of Advanced Orthopedic’s advanced imaging suites to further aid in identifying the problem. This helps our surgeons pinpoint the exact source of the pain and be better able to determine treatment options, which in all cases, is the least invasive. Surgery, even total hip replacement, can be done arthroscopically on an out-patient basis.

The committed hip doctors and surgeons at Advanced Orthopedic believe good communication with their patients is the key to a successful treatment outcome. They take the time to explain everything, discuss all options, answer questions and address any concerns.

No one should have to live with hip pain. Advanced Orthopedic skilled team of highly-experienced physicians, surgeons, physical therapists, and others are dedicated to providing patients with individualized care. Our innovative treatment programs revolve around each patient’s specific needs, with the goal of delivering outcomes that improve quality of life. When it comes to hip care, you can turn to us for personalized, compassionate care. Our offices are conveniently located across the front range, and it’s easy to make an appointment. Find the provider that fits your needs and contact us today.

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