The hip is a mobile joint that connects the femur (thigh bone) to the pelvis. Hip pain is very common in Australia and there is a range of causes. Pain often is felt in the hip itself, as well as the buttocks, groin and thigh. The common causes of hip pain varies according to the demographics of the patient.
One in four adults over 60 report having hip pain. The most common cause of pain in this age group is osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative process where the cartilage that separates the two bones wears away. The bones also sit closer together and rub against each other. Bone spurs can also form which further limits the mobility of the hip joint. Chiropractic treatment for osteoarthritic hip pain can be very effective. Treatment involves increasing the mobility of the hip, releasing tight muscles and strengthening weak muscles that support the hip. Other causes of hip pain in older adults include bursitis, tendonitis and fractures.
The athletic population also commonly suffers hip pain. Injuries can develop slowly over time or suddenly with an incident.
Some of the hip conditions common in athletes include:
- Femoroacetabular Impingement occurs in athletes with abnormally shaped bones at the hip joint. Pain and decreased mobility occur as the two bones of the hip collide due to their abnormal shape.
- Labral Tears can develop slowly with degeneration or suddenly with trauma. The hip labrum is the cartilage that lines the hip joint and promotes smooth movement. Along with pain, sufferers notice clicking in the hip joint.
- Groin strains can produce pain at the hip. The muscles of the groin area are called the adductors. If your leg is held out to the side, these muscles function bring the leg back to the midline of your body. These muscles are commonly strained in soccer, football and sprinting.
