Hip Pain

A blunt force or a fall can cause the head of the femur to “pop” out of its normal position in the pelvis. This injury is very painful, and can damage the soft tissue in the hips, as well as the surrounding nerves. The head of the femur (the “ball”) needs to be relocated to the pelvic bone (the “socket”) as soon as possible by a trained medical professional.

This injury is most common in people who play contact sports such as football, and is usually caused by a major blow to the pelvis. The impact results in a deep bruise, or in severe cases, a cracked pelvis or internal bleeding.

Activities that involve twisting, such as yoga, Pilates, various sports, or physically demanding work can tear the labrum, the ring of cartilage that protects your hip. Labral tears may cause deep pain within the joint.

A herniated disc (or “slipped disc”) in the back sometimes causes pain in the hip joint.

Commonly referred to as a “pulled groin,” this injury is caused by a strain or tear in the adductor muscles in the thigh. This injury usually affects athletes that perform sudden movements, twists, or changes in direction.

This condition occurs when overuse or repetitive motions when working or playing sports trigger the bursa in the hip to create excess fluid. This may cause swelling, inflammation, and pain.

Sometimes referred to as a “broken hip,” a fracture is caused by a traumatic impact, such as a fall, sports injury, or a motor vehicle accident. The pain is severe and usually prevents sufferers from walking or bearing weight. A fracture should be treated immediately at the nearest emergency room.

Commonly referred to as “R.A.,” this chronic autoimmune disorder inflames and thickens the hip joint’s lining. Rheumatoid arthritis breaks down the surrounding cartilage, causing painful swelling (often severe) and stiffness.

This is the most common type of arthritis. Osteoarthritis results from normal wear and tear, overuse, and aging. The protective cartilage deteriorates, causing the hip bones to rub against each other, which leads to pain, stiffness, and inflexibility.

When blood stops flowing to the pelvis, this bone begins to crack, and without proper treatment, it may collapse. Because the bone is “dying,” this condition is very painful and leaves people unable to bear weight on the side of the hip with the disease. Avascular necrosis can be caused by a hip dislocation, a fracture that did not heal properly, or certain medications or medical disorders.

This disorder involves bone loss that is usually due to aging or dietary problems. It is most common in post-menopausal women, sometimes leading to bent-over posture and/or bone fractures.

Both cancerous and non-cancerous tumors can form lumps in the bone or soft tissue of the hip. Tumors may or may not be painful, but seek medical care as soon as possible for a diagnosis.