Hip pain can be debilitating, robbing you of your ability to move freely and comfortably. At Stittsville Sport Physio, we provide effective physiotherapy for hip pain to relieve your symptoms and improve mobility. We’ll conduct a thorough evaluation to accurately diagnose the cause of your discomfort and design a personalized treatment plan. Here are some of the most common causes of hip pain that we can treat:
1. Hip Bursitis
The bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs located near the joints. Their function is to reduce friction between the bones, ligaments, muscles, and tendons, allowing them to move more freely. Bursitis occurs when these sacs become swollen and inflamed, and this condition is mainly caused by overuse or repetitive motions. Physiotherapy for hip bursitis helps reduce inflammation and restore normal movement.
2. Iliopsoas Impingement
The iliopsoas made up of two muscles (psoas major and iliacus) and their tendons that connect the lumbar spine to the femur. Impingement of the iliopsoas occurs when these muscles and tendons are compressed between two hard surfaces, such as the femur head and the pelvic bone or the inguinal ligament. This can happens due to weakened core muscles, poor positiong or aging-related changes in the spine or hip. Our physiotherapists will assess your iliopsoas muscle and recommend exercises to improve strength and flexibility.
3. Osteoarthritis of the Hip Joint
Osteoarthritis is an age related condition where the cartilage between two bones begins to soften and disappear. As the protective layer of cartilage thins, other inflammatory changes start to affect the capsule of the joint, resulting in pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Factors that can lead to osteoarthritis include age, obesity, and prior injuries. We help manage your symptoms with targeted exercises and manual therapy techniques if needed. The best evidence informed treatment for hip arthritis pain is exercise.
4. Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)
In this case either the shape of the femoral head (the ball of the hip joint) or the shape of the socket have changed. This could be genetic or due to repeated use and stress. When this occurs the femoral head and the acetabulum don’t fit together as well. Over time, these bones may rub against each other, leading to pain and inflammation. Some people with FAI will experience a clicking sensation. Physiotherapy is an effective way to manage femoroacetabular impingement and improve range of motion and work on any strength defits that you may have as a result of the FAI. If you suspect you have FAI, seek treatment from our experienced physiotherapists.
5. Labral Tears
The labrum is a ring of cartilage that surrounds the hip socket and provides stability. Labral tears are most often the result of traumatic events, such as a fall or a twisting injury to the hip. Some people who have hip osteoarthritis (OA) will also devel a labral tear. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, decreased mobility and often a reproducible clicking/ catching sensation. Your physiotherapist can help diagnose and treat labral tears with a combination of manual therapy and specialized exercises.
6. Osteitis Pubis
Osteitis pubis is pubic symphysis inflammation. The pubic symphysis is the joint where the left and right pubic bones meet in the front of the pelvis. This condition usually happens due to overuse, such as running and other repetitive motions that occur in sports like hockey and soccer. Physical therapy for osteitis pubis focuses on relieving symptoms, increasing strength and flexibility, and developing a long-term prevention plan.
7. Hip Dislocation
This rare injury occurs when the femur ball slips out of its socket in the pelvis. This can only occur with trauma such as a car accident, a fall or traumatic sports-related injury. Congenital hip dysplasia (usually identified in babies) is another reason an adult may dislocate their hip. A dislocated hip requires immediate medical attention at the hospital. Once the hip is relocated and has time to heal from the trauma, our team can create an individualized rehabilitation program to help you regain your strength, flexibility, and mobility.
This isn’t a comprehensive list of all the injuries that can cause hip pain, but it’s a good starting point for identifying the root cause of your discomfort. If you’re experiencing persistent hip pain, get evaluated by a professional to pinpoint the source and develop an effective treatment plan.
Visit Stittsville Sport Physio in Stittsville, ON, for Physiotherapy for Hip Pain
Don’t let hip pain limit your mobility and enjoyment of life. Here at Stittsville Sport Physio, we’re experienced in diagnosing and treating hip injuries. We’ll help pinpoint the cause and create a customized physiotherapy treatment plan to help you get back to your active lifestyle.