The hip joint is the largest joint in our bodies, and as we age, there are a number of conditions that can lead to hip pain and a reduced range of motion. If you are suffering with minor or long term hip pain, consider the frequent causes of hip pain and how Palm Beach Pain Institute can help.
The Most Common Causes of Hip Pain
Arthritis
Arthritis is the most common cause of long lasting hip pain with symptoms that include trouble walking, stiff and painful joints, and persistent pain. The pain usually gets worse with activity, reduces your range of motion, and can cause a limp.
Osteoarthritis (OA)
Osteoarthritis develops with age as the cartilage which surrounds the hip joint wears down. Sometimes the cartilage can become infected, which can lead to much quicker and more severe degeneration.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a serious inflammatory joint disease that can destroy the joint cartilage and bones of the hip joint.
Bursitis
Bursitis occurs when the bursa sac filled with liquid near the hip joint becomes inflamed.
Injuries Like Hip Fractures
As we age, our joints become weak, brittle, and much more prone to accidents and falls. Painful hip fractures usually require surgical intervention by Palm Beach Pain Institute. Other causes of significant hip pain may include dislocations, inguinal hernias, hip labral tears, sprains, bone cancer, and leukemia.
Treatments in Palm Beach, FL
Patients with hip pain can first try some at-home remedies, such as:
- Ice packs
- Warm showers and heat
- Avoid sleeping on the affected side
- Over-the-counter pain medications
- Rest
- Losing weight to reduce pressure on the hip
When To See Palm Beach Pain Institute
When other treatments have failed to reduce your pain, or the pain worsens even when using a cane or walker, interferes with your sleep, and affects your ability to go up and down stairs, it may be time to discuss hip replacement surgery with a specialist like Palm Beach Pain Institute.
The goal of hip replacement surgery is to reduce pain, improve function, and increase overall mobility. The surgery involves removing all the damaged cartilage and bone and replacing them with prosthetic components.
Contact Palm Beach Pain Institute for an evaluation if your hip pain is affecting your daily life and activities.
As always, if you have any further questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please call (561) 499-7020 or request an appointment online today!