Hip conditions are extremely common around the globe. While most people develop hip disorders as they age, some young adults also experience hip pain because of their lifestyle, genetics, and a range of other factors.
Between the ages of 30 and 50, the hip joints begin to experience moderate wear and tear. Beyond the age of 50, they continue to weaken and cause discomfort. If neglected, this discomfort can develop into chronic pain. Many people also notice a reduction in their range of motion and flexibility.
If you suffer from a hip condition that requires surgery, follow your doctor’s instructions and proceed with the operation. But get a second opinion, and if your condition hasn’t progressed as rapidly, you may consider minimally invasive alternatives to hip replacement surgery. Here are three of the most common options:
1. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can be both noninvasive and minimally invasive, depending on the exercises that are prescribed. Physical therapists use strengthening exercises and stretches to help restore your range of motion, decrease pain and inflammation, and improve hip performance.
2. Arthroscopy
Extremely effective and minimally invasive, arthroscopy is an excellent treatment for hip pain. It’s suitable for patients who have extensive soft tissue and cartilage damage. A few minor incisions will be made to gain access to the ball-and-socket joint. Shortly after, debris will be carefully and assiduously removed from around the hip. This is achieved via the use of special instruments.
3. Corticosteroid Injections
Excellent in relieving inflammation and pain, corticosteroid injections can provide relief for several months or even years. These injections offer faster pain relief than most pain medications and oral anti-inflammatories.
You will also be requested to adjust your lifestyle. If you spend long hours sitting in the same position, you will be required to take some breaks, perform hip joint exercises, and maintain a healthy weight.
Avoid other activities that create strain and pressure on your hip joint. As the delicate tendons, muscles, and ligaments around the hip joint become inflamed, hip pain can worsen. Limit high-impact sports to reduce the progression of joint degeneration. In addition, follow a joint-friendly diet.
At the Orthopedic Center of Excellence at Houston Physicians’ Hospital, we specialize in diagnosing and treating hip conditions like arthritis, hip fracture, osteoarthritis, hip bursitis, hip dislocation, hip dysplasia, and femoroacetabular impingement, among several others.
We offer both surgical and nonsurgical treatment plans depending on your condition, age, lifestyle, medical history, and symptoms. Click here to learn more about our Orthopedic Center of Excellence and to find a doctor who’s right for you.
In addition to treating hip pain, our facility also treats back pain, neck pain, joint pain, and knee pain, among other conditions.