Hip pain is a common symptom that affects many people. In fact, it frequently prompts those who suffer from it to visit the chiropractor. Pain in the hip may sometimes be accompanied by limping, reduced muscle movement in the hip joint, muscle stiffness and pain in the leg whenever weight is applied to it. There are many conditions that can cause pain in the hips, and so it’s important to seek out professional care in an attempt to pinpoint the source of the pain.
Hip pain may be felt on the inside of the hip or groin or on the outside of the hip and upper thigh or buttocks. When pain is felt on the inside of the hip, it is typically due to an issue in the hip joint. However, when it’s felt on the outside of the hip, this usually signals an issue with the muscles, tendons, ligaments or other soft tissues surrounding the hip joint. The pain may even be rooted in an entirely different part of the body but felt in the hip (this is known as “referred pain”).
Causes and Treatment of Hip Pain
One of the most common causes of hip pain is trauma to the hip from injury or overuse, which could result in a fractured hip bone, worn or torn cartilage, or a strained muscle or tendon. Pain can also come from any condition that causes inflammation to the hip area, such as arthritis, bursitis or tendonitis. It may also result if the pelvis is tilted over time during walking or running because of poor posture or a difference in leg length.
Chiropractors are trained to treat hip pain using a variety of techniques, and the particular treatment will largely depend on the root cause of the pain. Your hip will be examined in an effort to pinpoint the cause, and an x-ray or other imaging test may be used to aid in diagnosis. Chiropractors may treat hip pain with a series of regular spinal adjustments to help eliminate or reduce restrictions of the spine that could be contributing to the pain. Other treatment methods may include exercises, stretching, strength training, ultrasound therapy, electrotherapy or low-level laser treatment, among others. In addition, lifestyle changes may be recommended that support healthy weight management, regular movement, proper nutrition and optimal workspace arrangement.
Why Seek Chiropractic Treatment for Hip Pain?
If you’re suffering from hip pain, it’s important to seek treatment. Chiropractic care has been found to be effective in several studies for helping alleviate hip pain caused by restricted motion of a joint, arthritis, other disorders of the hip and sports injuries. If there is a holistic way to treat your condition that doesn’t involve surgery, we can advise a treatment plan that is right for you. Chiropractors can help reduce the pain, and depending on its cause, treat the root of the problem.