Your hip is one of the primary weight-bearing joints in your body, and as such, it tends to be prone to injury and wear as you age. When your hip joint doesn’t work right, it can affect you in many ways. Reduced mobility may keep you away from activities you once enjoyed, while persistent pain can make it challenging to perform basic tasks like walking, getting in and out of chairs, and bending over to tie your shoes. You may even struggle to feel comfortable while resting. At the Orthopaedic Institute of Ohio, we understand how a hip injury or pain can impact your life. We offer a full range of diagnostic services and treatment options, from conservative measures to surgical interventions, to help you regain your mobility and enjoy an active lifestyle once again.
Hips
The Anatomy and Function of Our Hips
The hip is a ball-and-socket joint that connects our thigh bone (femur) to our pelvis. The ball, or femoral head, sits at the top of the thigh bone, while the socket, known as the acetabulum, is part of the pelvis. The ball fits securely into the socket.
In addition to these bones, several other key components must work together to keep our hip joint functioning smoothly:
Articular Cartilage
Smooth, slippery tissue that covers the surface of the ball and socket, allowing the joint to move easily
Labrum
A ring of tough cartilage that surrounds the ball, providing stability and cushioning to the joint
Ligaments
Strong, flexible bands of tissue that connect the femur to the pelvis to prevent the joint from dislocating
Muscles
Surrounding muscles, such as the glutes, hip flexors, adductors and abductors, enable movement
Tendons
Tough, fibrous cords that attach the muscles to the bones, allowing the muscles to exert force
Our hips do a lot for us every day. They support our body’s weight and enable an array of movements that allow us to carry out activities like walking, running, sitting and bending.
Because we use them for so much, our hips are designed to withstand a significant amount of wear and tear. However, the joint is not indestructible. Age, injury and chronic conditions can cause hip pain, stiffness and reduced range of motion.v
“I am a nurse who could barely work the floor anymore because my pain in my hip was so bad. I had surgery and the relief was immediate! I am back on the floor doing the job I love. These guys are awesome! Highly recommend.” – Holly K
Common Hip Injuries and Conditions
We work with numerous hip conditions and injuries at the Orthopaedic Institute of Ohio:
Arthritis
Different types of arthritis can affect the hip.
Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that protects and cushions the joint wears away over time. This leads to pain, swelling, stiffness, and decreased range of motion as the bones rub against each other. Eventually, as the condition progresses, the bones themselves can start to wear away. Osteoarthritis is the most common reason for hip pain.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes the body to attack its own joints and tissues, resulting in pain, reduced mobility and deterioration of the joint. Because it is a systemic disorder — meaning it affects the entire body, not just a single joint — it often occurs in both hips at the same time.
Hip Impingement
Hip impingement (also called femoroacetabular impingement or FAI) is a condition where extra bone growth interferes with the normal motion of the joint. The overgrowth can be on the ball, the socket or both. The pressure and friction caused by the extra bone can cause pain, stiffness, and a clicking or locking sensation. This can sometimes lead to tears of the labrum.
Avascular Necrosis
Avascular necrosis occurs when there is reduced blood supply to the head of the femur. Lack of blood flow can cause the bone to deteriorate over time, resulting in chronic pain and stiffness in the joint. If left unchecked, the femoral head can sustain significant damage which may lead to a complete collapse of the hip.
Hip Dysplasia
Children are sometimes born with structural abnormalities that affect how the hip joint develops. Hip dysplasia is a condition present from birth in which the socket portion of the pelvis is too shallow to fully cover the femoral head. This allows the head of the femur to dislocate easily. It is also associated with pain and an increased risk of developing early arthritis.
Bursitis of the Hip
Bursitis is the inflammation of the small, fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the hip joint. There are two major bursae in the hip that are most likely to become irritated and inflamed. In the early stages, bursitis is typically characterized by sharp, intense pain. As time passes, the pain may become an aching sensation and spread to a larger area.
Labral Tears
The labrum is a rim of soft fibrocartilage that surrounds the hip socket. Tears can occur anywhere in this cartilage, causing the joint to lose its suction seal. Labral tears often occur alongside other injuries or conditions in the hip. While some tears do not have any noticeable symptoms, others lead to significant pain and require treatment to resolve.
Fractures
Hip fractures are more common in older adults due to the natural loss of bone density that happens as we age. A hip fracture specifically refers to a break in the upper portion of the femur; an injury to the socket is not considered a hip fracture. Most hip fractures require surgery, followed by physical therapy to restore mobility and strength to the joint.
When to Seek Treatment for a Hip Issue
If you’re experiencing persistent hip pain, stiffness or reduced mobility that interferes with your daily activities, it’s time to consult an orthopaedic specialist.
Hip pain affects different people in different ways. Some people notice that their symptoms are worse in the morning or after sitting for an extended period. Others experience more pain and stiffness after vigorous activity. If the pain is severe enough, it can make it difficult to walk or bend.
Some signs that you should seek immediate medical attention include:
- Sudden, severe hip pain
- Inability to bear weight on the affected leg
- Visible deformity in the hip or leg
- Signs of infection (e.g. fever or chills)
Damage to the hip joint often worsens over time, so the sooner you begin treatment, the more likely it is that you can treat the issue and reduce its impact on your life. Schedule a consultation with the experts at OIO today.
“I had hip replacement surgery on both of my hips. Both of my surgeries were very successful, and I was able to quickly resume my normal activities. I recommend them very highly.” – Sue N.
How We Diagnose Hip Conditions
When you visit the Orthopaedic Institute of Ohio with a hip condition or injury, you can expect a thorough evaluation. Your orthopaedic specialist will:
- Discuss your medical history and symptoms
- Perform a physical examination of the affected hip
- Use diagnostic tests, such as X-rays or advanced imaging, to visualize the internal structures of your hip
Our orthopaedic clinics are equipped with the latest diagnostic equipment and technology to help our specialists identify issues and create appropriate treatment plans.
Nonsurgical Treatment Options for Hip Injuries and Conditions
We believe in taking a conservative approach to hip pain management whenever possible. Nonsurgical treatments can often provide significant relief and improve your quality of life without the need for surgery. Some of the nonsurgical options we offer include:
Medications and Injections
Over-the-counter and prescription medications, such as anti-inflammatories and pain relievers, and steroid injections can help alleviate discomfort and reduce inflammation.
Although these options may not be able to resolve the source of your hip pain, they can help you manage it and lead a more active, fulfilling life.
Physical Therapy
Exercises performed under the guidance of our licensed physical therapists and occupational therapists can help improve your hip flexibility, strength and range of motion.
Patients are often prescribed physical therapy as part of a rehabilitation plan after surgery. Alternatively, physical therapy may be recommended in place of surgery to restore mobility to the hip without an operation.
Assistive Devices
Using an assistive device, such as a cane or a walker, can make it easier to walk and reduce the risk of falls. If bending is challenging due to stiffness in the hip joint, a long-handled shoe horn or a reacher can make it easier to perform essential daily tasks.
Lifestyle Modifications
Making lifestyle changes can keep your symptoms under control and slow the progression of certain conditions. These may include using exercise to build joint strength, maintaining a healthy weight (and losing weight, if necessary) to reduce stress on the joint and minimizing activities that aggravate the condition.
Surgical Treatment Options for Hip Injuries and Conditions
When nonsurgical treatments fail to provide adequate relief, or in cases of severe hip damage, surgery may be necessary. Our skilled Ohio orthopaedic surgeons offer a range of surgical treatment options:
Hip Arthroscopy
Arthroscopic surgery is less invasive than traditional surgery. During hip arthroscopy, a device with a camera (arthroscope) is inserted into the joint through a small incision. The camera displays video on a monitor so the surgeon can see the inside of the hip. Additional instruments are inserted through other small incisions to repair damage to the joint.
Total Hip Replacement (THR)
Total hip replacement replaces all or part of the hip joint with an artificial device (prosthesis) that mimics the ball and socket components of the natural hip joint. After healing and rehabilitation, total hip replacement is highly effective at relieving pain and restoring function in patients with severe hip damage.
Revision Hip Replacement
Total hip replacement has a high success rate, but it does not always provide permanent or satisfactory results. Revision surgery may be recommended if a patient experiences complications from their initial hip surgery or if the artificial joint fails during their lifetime. Techniques vary from minor adjustments to extensive surgery designed to replace significant amounts of damaged bone.
OIO: Setting the Standard of Excellence in Hip Care
At the Orthopaedic Institute of Ohio, we’re committed to providing the highest level of care for patients with hip conditions and injuries. Our team of board-certified orthopaedic physicians, physician assistants, nurses and physical therapists work together to get you the help you need.
We understand that hip pain can make you feel like a spectator in your own life. Our state-of-the-art facilities are equipped with the latest diagnostic tools, allowing us to accurately identify the source of your pain and develop a targeted treatment plan. We offer a full range of surgical and nonsurgical treatment options to get you back in the game.
We’ve helped countless patients reclaim their active lifestyles, from weekend warriors to retirees who want to keep up with their grandkids. Our patients consistently tell us how much their lives have improved since seeking treatment at OIO, and we’re proud to be a part of their success stories.
“I am a firm believer in OIO. They did an excellent job on both of my hip replacements. Great people to deal with.” – Rick K.
It’s Time to Reclaim Your Mobility and Independence
Don’t let hip pain hold you back any longer – let OIO help you get back on track.
If you’re ready to take the first step towards a more comfortable, active life, contact the Orthopaedic Institute of Ohio today at 419-963-4870. Our compassionate team is here to answer your questions and get you started on your journey to better hip health.
FAQs
Where is hip pain usually felt?
Hip pain is typically felt in your groin, upper thigh or buttocks. The location, severity and type of pain can vary depending on the underlying cause. For example, pain from hip arthritis is often felt in the groin and front of the thigh, while bursitis tends to cause pain on the outer side of the hip. Sometimes hip pain can radiate to the knee.
How do I know if my hip pain is serious?
If your hip pain is severe, persistent or interferes with your daily life, you should consult an orthopaedic specialist. Other warning signs include sudden swelling, fever, chills or the inability to bear weight on your leg.
What are the symptoms of a worn hip joint?
The symptoms of a worn hip joint may include pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest, stiffness, limited range of motion, and a grinding or grating sensation in your joint. As the condition progresses, you may find it increasingly difficult to perform everyday tasks like walking, getting in and out of chairs, or putting on your shoes and socks.
What is the best sleeping position for hip pain?
It’s usually best to sleep on your back or on your side with a pillow to support your knees. If you prefer to sleep on your back, placing a pillow underneath your knees can help alleviate pressure on your hips. When sleeping on your side, a pillow between your knees helps keep your hips, pelvis and spine in proper alignment.
Is walking good for hip pain?
Walking can be beneficial for hip pain because it helps preserve flexibility in the joint, strengthens the muscles and promotes circulation. However, if walking makes your pain worse or you have a more severe hip condition, you may need to modify your activity level. Always listen to your body and consult with your doctor or physical therapist for guidance.
How do I know if my hip pain is muscle or joint?
Hip pain from a muscle strain or inflammation tends to be more localized and may feel like a dull ache or a sharp, burning sensation. Muscle pain often improves with rest and gentle stretching.
In contrast, joint pain is often more achy and diffuse, and may be accompanied by stiffness, swelling or a grinding sensation. Joint pain typically worsens with activity and may not improve with rest alone.
What is the recovery time for hip surgery?
Recovery time varies depending on the type of hip surgery and individual factors such as age and overall health. In general, patients can expect to return to light activities within a few weeks, with a gradual return to more strenuous activities over several months.
What kind of rehabilitation is involved after hip surgery?
Rehabilitation is an important part of the healing process. After hip surgery, your treatment plan may include a combination of physical therapy, occupational therapy and home exercises. Your therapists will teach you techniques to minimize complications and improve your strength, range of motion and mobility.
Can sitting too much cause hip pain?
Prolonged sitting can contribute to hip pain by putting pressure on your hip joints. When you sit for extended periods, your hip flexors and hamstrings can become tight, while your gluteal muscles may become weak. This can increase stress on your hip joint and alter your biomechanics. To counteract these effects, you should take frequent breaks to stand, stretch and walk around.
How can hip problems be prevented?
While not all hip conditions can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. These include maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular low-impact exercise, using proper form during physical activities and addressing any underlying medical conditions that may contribute to hip problems.