Hip Joint Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Hip joint pain

Hello Doctor, my friend is 18 years old and around early July, he started experiencing hip joint pain that progressed to pain in the entire leg, including the hip joint, knee, and ankle, along with scoliosis.
He experiences pain whenever he walks.
He took painkillers in July, but recently they have become less effective in controlling the pain.
This has continued until November, and although he is still taking medication, the pain is getting worse.
What should he do about the hip joint causing discomfort throughout the entire leg, making walking very difficult?

Mr. Zhan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/11/21

Dr. Chen Bochen reply Orthopedics

Hello, the solution is quite simple.
Find a specialist who focuses on the spine and hip joints to help you with an examination.
Also, try not to switch doctors frequently, as physicians need time to gradually clarify the issues you are experiencing.

Reply Date: 2020/11/21

More Info

Hip joint pain can be a complex issue, especially in a young individual like your friend. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for effective management and recovery.

Causes of Hip Joint Pain
1. Injury or Trauma: Acute injuries such as fractures, dislocations, or sprains can lead to significant pain in the hip joint and radiate down the leg. Given your friend's age, sports-related injuries are common.

2. Overuse Injuries: Repetitive activities, especially in sports, can lead to conditions like tendinitis or bursitis, causing inflammation and pain in the hip joint.

3. Hip Labral Tear: This is a common injury in young athletes, where the cartilage that surrounds the hip joint is torn, leading to pain and instability.

4. Osteoarthritis: Although more common in older adults, early-onset osteoarthritis can occur, especially if there is a history of joint injuries.

5. Infections or Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions like septic arthritis or inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis can cause hip pain and systemic symptoms.

6. Nerve Issues: Conditions like sciatica can cause pain that radiates from the lower back through the hip and down the leg.

Symptoms
The symptoms your friend is experiencing—pain in the hip, knee, ankle, and even spinal curvature—suggest a systemic issue or a significant local problem affecting the hip joint. The pain worsening despite medication indicates that the underlying cause may not be adequately addressed.

Treatment Options
1. Medical Evaluation: A thorough evaluation by an orthopedic specialist is essential. This may include imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs to assess for structural issues in the hip joint.

2. Physical Therapy: A tailored physical therapy program can help strengthen the muscles around the hip, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. This is especially important if there is any muscle imbalance or weakness contributing to the pain.

3. Medications: While over-the-counter pain relievers may provide temporary relief, stronger prescription medications or anti-inflammatory drugs may be necessary. If there is significant inflammation, corticosteroid injections might be considered.

4. Activity Modification: Reducing activities that exacerbate the pain is crucial. This may involve cross-training or switching to low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling.

5. Surgical Options: If conservative treatments fail and there is a significant structural issue (like a labral tear or severe arthritis), surgical intervention may be necessary. This could involve arthroscopy to repair the labrum or other corrective procedures.

6. Alternative Therapies: Some patients find relief through acupuncture, chiropractic care, or massage therapy. These should be considered as complementary to conventional treatments.

Conclusion
Given the persistence of your friend's symptoms and the impact on mobility, it is vital to seek a comprehensive evaluation from a healthcare professional. Early intervention can prevent further complications and improve the quality of life. Encourage your friend to keep a detailed record of symptoms, activities, and any treatments tried, as this information will be invaluable during medical consultations.

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