Hip Surgery in Elkhart and Other Indiana Locations

How Does Hip Pain Start?

The hip joint is capable of withstanding repeated motion and a considerable amount of wear and tear. The largest ball-and-socket joint in the body fits together in a way that permits fluid movement. Despite its resilience, the hip joint is not invulnerable. Cartilage can wear down or become damaged with age and use. Muscles and tendons in the hip can get overused. Hip bones can fracture during a fall or other injury.

What Are The Causes?

• Arthritis
• Fractures
• Bursitis
• Tendinitis
• Muscle or tendon strain

If your hip pain is caused by a muscle or tendon strain, osteoarthritis, or tendinitis, over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen can typically provide relief.

Additionally, hip pain can be alleviated by applying ice to the affected area for 15 minutes a few times per day. As much as possible, rest the affected joint until you feel better. You may also attempt to heat the area. A warm bath or shower can prepare your muscles for pain-relieving stretching exercises.

Low-impact exercises, stretching, and resistance training can reduce pain and increase joint mobility in individuals with arthritis. Additionally, physical therapy can increase your range of motion.

When You Should Seek Medical Care for Hip Problems

Get medical help right away if:

• The hip pain began abruptly
• A fall or other injury caused the hip discomfort
• Your joint appears deformed and may be bleeding
• You heard a popping sound when you injured the joint
• The pain is severe
• No weight can be placed on your hip
• You are unable to move your leg or hip

Surgical Options for Treating Hip Pain

When non-surgical options fail to alleviate joint pain, the next step is surgery. The following are brief descriptions of common treatments for hip pain.

Hip Arthroscopy

Hip arthroscopy is a surgical procedure involving the insertion of a pencil-sized arthroscope into the hip joint through small incisions. The arthroscope is equipped with a video camera that transmits an image of your hip to a television monitor, enabling your surgeon to examine the interior of your hip. Then, your surgeon may be able to diagnose and treat your hip pain. The majority of hip arthroscopies are performed on young, physically active adults to remove loose bodies from the joint. It involves the removal of torn or loose portions of the labrum and the treatment of the hip joint's articular cartilage. The surgeon inserts video probes through small incisions in order to see the joint and take corrective action.

Hip Replacement

The replacement of the hip joint is one of the most common orthopedic procedures. Hip replacement is a surgical procedure involving the removal and replacement of the hip joint with an artificial joint. This may be suggested for patients with arthritis or a hip fracture. There are both conventional and minimally invasive procedures available. Physical therapy can help you learn how to use a new joint after a brief hospital stay. This treatment may last for weeks or months. It may take up to a year to fully recover, and your doctor will explain which activities will aid or hinder your recovery.