Why does my hip(s) hurt?
Over time one’s hip takes a beating especially if they were an athlete. Although, there is a cushion between the hip and pelvic bone, doesn’t mean it is indestructible. There are multiple causes of hip pain, but some of the biggest are; arthritis, bursitis, hip fractures, hip impingement, and tendonitis.
How do I know if I should see a physician?
This is a question often asked, and we’ve compiled a list to help you determine your next steps:
- If you feel groin pain that worsens gradually as you tend to do more activities.
- If you feel pain in the morning upon waking up.
- If you lack the full hip range due to pain.
- If you feel the pain that is very localized.
- If you have deep sharp pains that feel like it is “catching” or “giving way.”
- If you have pain in the pubic area that gets worse with walking strides or pivoting.
How does physical therapy help with hip pain?
Physical therapy helps with hip pain by performing conservative care treatments for patients to decrease the likelihood of major surgeries and/or prevention of hip pain to persist. Physical therapy does that in a number of ways. One way physical therapy does that is with hands-on treatment. Physical therapists are educated on hands-on treatments to help increase mobility and/or decrease pain/tightness. Another way would be with exercise interventions. Physical therapists build an array of exercises from both schools and on the job learning to find the best way to help each individual patient, because not every patient presents with the same symptoms. One of the biggest misconceptions of physical therapy is that people think once you are done with physical therapy you don’t need to continue with all the exercises learned during physical therapy. Physical therapy is a lifelong commitment to preventing hip pain symptoms from reoccurring.
If you are unsure, contact any of the Makovicka Physical Therapy clinics for an appointment for a Complimentary Consultation. This short meeting with a physical therapist can provide a wealth of information to help you determine next steps.
Edwin Mendoza PTA