HIP PAIN

Introduction
The human body is composed of hundreds of joints. All joints are important to stabilize the body and keep it moving. But the hips are most important in maintaining posture and mobility.

Hips are the foundation for almost every movement we make. They play a role in helping us stand upright, walk, and even sit. Painful hips interfere with everyday activities such as getting dressed or working.

What is Hip Pain?
Hips are complex joints comprised of bones, ligaments, and muscles that all must work together. They’re formed from a “ball and socket joint” that attaches your leg to your torso. In the hip joint, the head of your thigh bone swivels within a socket at your pelvis.

They are designed to be very durable and to withstand lots of wear and tear. Even so, they can become damaged by age or injury.

Your exact symptoms will depend on the cause of your pain, but you may feel discomfort in your groin, thigh, buttocks, or inside the joint itself.

It’s important to remember that hip pain is not normal. Visiting your chiropractor can help alleviate symptoms and correct underlying issues.

The Causes of Hip Pain
Pain occurs whenever the hips are not functioning properly. It could come from any of the underlying structures, so it’s important to see a doctor if pain exists.

The most common cause of hip pain is deterioration of cartilage. Cartilage is the tough, smooth coating at the end of your bones. This deterioration is called osteoarthritis, or OA.It’s a chronic condition accompanied by painful swelling.

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is another inflammatory disease. It’s an autoimmune disorder that attacks your joints causing painful swelling.

The hips are prone to overuse injuries because they’re involved in so many movements throughout our life. The repeated stress builds up over time.

Hip pain can come from a traumatic injury like a fall, even if there are no broken bones. Tendons and ligaments get pulled; muscle spasms can happen.

The Treatment of Hip Pain
Your doctor of chiropractic will first assess your condition by doing a full exam. The exam checks your reflexes, posture, and flexibility. He or she will also discuss your health history, symptoms, and condition.

Your chiropractor will probably request x-rays and an MRI. These images help him or her see the inside of your body so they can create the most appropriate treatment plan possible.

Your doctor will use manual manipulation as well as other techniques to combat your specific problem. Manual techniques properly align the joints, restore natural movement, and reduce muscle spasms. He or she will likely suggest home exercises to augment your clinic visits.

Schedule Your Appointment Today
Contact us today and schedule an appointment with SpinePlus Chiropractic.