Hip Pain

The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint that connects the thigh bone (femur) to the pelvis, providing stability and facilitating a wide range of motion for activities like walking, running, and jumping.

Here are some common hip injuries:

Osteoarthritis - This is an inflammation of the hip joint often caused by excessive load on the joint. Key contributing factors include unbalanced sports activities and poor posture. The inflammation progresses through several stages. In advanced stages, the joint can lose its rounded shape. When the inflammation significantly affects the quality of life, surgical intervention to implant an artificial joint may be considered.

Hip replacement surgery has been performed for many years and has become increasingly effective, especially with the anterior surgical approach. This approach facilitates easier rehabilitation, allowing patients to return to full function and sports activities more quickly.

Avascular Necrosis (Osteonecrosis) - This condition occurs when one of the blood vessels surrounding the joint becomes blocked. Without adequate blood supply, the bone tissue does not receive proper nutrition and begins to die. The pain associated with this condition is intense and worsens with weight-bearing activities. Immediate instructions include avoiding weight-bearing on the affected leg, using crutches for mobility, and engaging in specific exercises to promote blood circulation while lying or sitting down. Massage around the joint to improve blood circulation is crucial. It's highly recommended to engage in water-based activities, like pool exercises, where the hydrostatic pressure and mobility of the water aid in recovery.

This condition offers a valuable opportunity to reflect on its cause and to implement necessary lifestyle changes to facilitate recovery. Together with the patient, we focus on adopting a diet that enhances blood circulation and strengthens bones, as well as engaging in balanced and age-appropriate physical activities. Smoking cessation is strongly advised for smokers.

Hip Labral Tear - The labrum is the tissue that surrounds the hip joint, resembling a ring or a seal. Labral tears typically don't occur in isolation but are often accompanied by other injuries or contusions. Symptoms include joint pain that intensifies with walking and can become constant when the tissue is inflamed. Patients may also experience difficulty finding a comfortable position for the leg.

Treatment aims to reduce joint stress by strengthening the muscles surrounding the hip joint. Techniques like the Mulligan method can create space in the joint to facilitate healing. Lifestyle and sports activities are also evaluated and modified as needed, focusing on improving posture, weight loss, and engaging in low-impact sports, among other adjustments.