Hip Pain Common Causes: Pelvic Asymmetry – At times the pelvis can become out of alignment which can cause significant pain and discomfort. This can happen because of a fall, stepping off a step wrong, or many other ways. If not corrected this can lead to low back or even knee or foot pain and pathology.
Weak and tight hip musculature – The hip is analogous anatomically to the shoulder, although it has much more inherent stability. However, because of the constant stress it is under with walking, running, or other daily activity the hip can begin to develop significant muscle imbalances which lead to significant pain. If not corrected this can lead to further musculoskeletal pathology.
Low back pathology – Hip pain can also be referred from the lumbar spine, especially with facet joint involvement. The extensors and external rotators of the hip can also become weak and atrophied in the presence of discogenic and degenerative conditions of the spine.
Self-help tips:
Avoid excessive periods of walking, especially on uneven ground and hills. This can cause increase in pelvic asymmetry, as well as increased activity and spasticity of the hip musculature.
Ice – Ice should always be used on injuries to limit inflammation and aggravation from daily activities. It is okay to alternate heat and ice as long as you always end with ice. Ice should be left on no longer than 20-30 minutes or a reverse effect can occur.
Seek help from a professional if your signs and symptoms persist even with basic icing and rest. Most of the time a basic therapeutic exercise program can alleviate your signs and symptoms and prevent further complication of the condition.
Be Wary of:
Hip problems that seem to extend down the leg. This could be caused by other pathology that can worsen without proper care. This is especially true in the presence of any muscle atrophy.
Treatment which focuses only on the hip. Many times there can be contributory problems from other areas which only manifest in the hips. It is essential to check for other sources of biomechanical stress.
