Hip Pain

Overview

Hip pain is a common complaint caused by various problems. The source of hip pain can be the result of structural imbalances at birth or throughout development, traumatic injury, and even underlying conditions in the low back or pelvis known as referred pain. Diagnoses can include osteoarthritis, muscle/tendon tears, and labral tears.

Common Symptoms of Hip Pain

Some common symptoms you will experience with hip pain may include the following:

Pain located in the groin
Pain located on the outside of the hip
Popping and/or cacking at the hip joint
Increased pain with bending
Increased pain with walking
Joint stiffness
Muscle tightness

How can physical therapy help?

A physical therapist will perform an initial evaluation which includes movement analysis, strength testing, and range of motion measurements to reveal the cause of your symptoms and determine a diagnosis. The evaluation process also helps to identify your limitations and gives the therapist insight on the best possible treatment approach. A plan of care will then be tailored to your individual needs that will include manual release of muscular tension, therapeutic exercise, stretching, as well as patient education on a home-based program for optimal outcomes. Physical therapy treatment is focused on injury prevention and promoting pain-free movement for a better quality of life. A physical therapist can also refer out to other specialties if further consultation is necessary.