HIP PAIN Q & A
WHY DOES MY HIP HURT?
As the largest ball-and-socket joint in your body, your hip allows for a wide range of motion for walking, running, and athletic movements. A variety of conditions can cause hip pain or other hip symptoms like stiffness, popping, locking, or weakness. Hip pain can be the result of any trauma or damage to your hip that affects the anatomical structures of the joint, like the:
Muscles of the hip
Ligaments of the hip
Labrum and cartilage within the hip
Bones and joints of the hip
In some cases, you can be born with anatomical variations of your hip joint that predispose you to hip pain, or you can develop structural changes over time due to wear-and-tear or trauma. Depending on your age, lifestyle, and overall health, you may be at an elevated risk for certain hip conditions.
HOW IS HIP PAIN DIAGNOSED?
When diagnosing hip pain, Dr. Wusu begins with a comprehensive exam and consultation. He asks about the location of your discomfort, how long you've been experiencing symptoms, and what activities or movements worsen your pain. Next, he examines your range of motion and moves your hip into different positions to assess your joint for structural issues that cause pain, stiffness, or instability. Dr. Wusu may order X-rays or an MRI if needed.
HOW IS HIP PAIN TREATED?
After reviewing your case, Dr. Wusu explains your diagnosis and treatment options in detail. He takes into account your age, overall health, and activity level in order to recommend the best course of treatment for you. Treatment can include:
Rest and activity modification
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications
Physical therapy
Injections, including corticosteroids, platelet-rich plasma, or stem cell therapy
For more complex cases, or those that don't respond to conservative methods, Dr. Wusu performs minimally invasive hip arthroscopy surgeries to remove or repair damaged tissue inside the hip.