Osteopathy For hip pain
Hip pain is a prevalent condition that affects a significant number of individuals, particularly those over 50 and active athletes. Studies indicate that about 15% of adults will experience hip pain at some point in their lives, impacting mobility and quality of life.
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Common causes of hip pain
Osteoarthritis: This degenerative joint disease is the most common cause of hip pain, resulting from the wear and tear of cartilage over time.
Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae, which are small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the hip joint, can lead to pain and swelling.
Tendonitis: Overuse of the hip tendons can cause inflammation and discomfort, particularly in athletes.
Injuries: Sprains, strains, fractures, or dislocations can occur due to falls or sports activities, leading to acute hip pain.
Labral Tears: Damage to the cartilage that stabilizes the hip joint can result in pain and instability.
Referred Pain: Conditions affecting the lower back or knees may cause pain that radiates to the hip area.
Common symptoms for hip pain
Individuals suffering from hip pain may experience a range of symptoms, including:
Persistent pain in or around the hip joint
Stiffness and reduced range of motion
Pain that worsens with activity or prolonged sitting
Swelling or tenderness in the hip area
A clicking or popping sensation during movement
Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or engaging in physical activities
3 Osteopathic tips for hip pain
With pain in the buttock, it is best to avoid direct pressure on those tissues to aid in healing. Try and reduce your periods of sitting and if needing to sit, try and sit on a pillow to avoid compression of the irritated tissues.
Ice as a substitute to heat may be a good way to reduce pain for those presenting with hip bursitis and lateral hip pain.
In conditions such as hamstring or gluteal tendinopathies, whilst it may feel good at the time to stretch the tissues, it is best to avoid long stretches through the tissues as it is irritating an already irritated tissue. A good substitute for exercise can include strength training of isometric contraction of the tissu
Osteopathy provides a holistic approach to treating hip pain by addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes. Treatment options may include:
Manual Therapy: Osteopathic techniques help relieve tension, improve joint mobility, and enhance circulation in the hip and surrounding areas.
Exercise Rehabilitation: Customized exercise programs strengthen the muscles that support the hip joint, improve flexibility, and promote recovery.
Postural Assessment: Evaluating your posture and movement patterns helps identify contributing factors to hip pain, allowing for targeted interventions.
Lifestyle and Ergonomic Advice: Osteopaths offer guidance on activity modifications, proper footwear, and ergonomic adjustments to minimize strain on the hip.
If you are experiencing hip pain, our clinic is dedicated to helping you find relief. Our experienced osteopaths will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan aimed at alleviating pain and restoring function. Don’t let hip pain interfere with your daily activities— Book in online today to schedule an appointment!