OSNA's Expert Q & A - Hip Pain

Q: How common is hip pain?
A: Hip pain is not that common in the younger population but is more common in middle age and elderly patients.

Q: How do I distinguish between occasional hip pain and ongoing pain that warrants medical attention?
A:  If the pain is persistent, you should seek would medical attention regardless if it is related to injury or not.

Q: What are the main causes of hip pain?
A:  In the younger population, over-use strains or tendinitis is more common.  But it also can be from a cartilage tear, variations in hip anatomy, effects from early childhood hip problems, or bone changes from impaired circulation to the hip. In the older population, the typical issues are degenerative, usually osteoarthritis (“wear and tear” type arthritis).

Q: What are the main treatments for hip pain?
A:   It all depends on the cause of hip pain. Medications, physical therapy, and resting the involved hip from activities are sometimes the treatment. In other cases, minimally invasive arthroscopy surgery, or open surgery is indicated.

Q: How do I know if I have bursitis in my hip?
A: This is a common problem due to inflammation of soft tissue outside the true hip joint, overlying the bony prominence on the side of the hip. Symptoms of bursitis include tenderness when lying on that side or walking.

Q: How do I know if I will need surgery?
A: Many hip problems can be treated without surgery. A visit with your orthopedic physician can determine what your specific treatment needs will be.

Q: What is your advice for patients with hip pain?
A: Your orthopedic specialist can perform an evaluation to determine your treatment options.