Medically reviewed by Dr. L. Bharath , Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Bharath Orthopaedics
Hip pain can affect people of different age groups and make everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, sitting and sleeping uncomfortable. Some people experience pain around the groin, while others feel discomfort on the outer side of the hip, buttocks or upper thigh. The location and nature of the pain can provide useful clues about its underlying cause.
Hip pain may develop due to arthritis, injuries, muscle or tendon problems, or conditions affecting the bones and surrounding tissues. In some cases, pain that appears to originate in the hip may actually be related to the lower back or nearby nerves.
Understanding the cause is an important first step towards appropriate care. Hip Pain Treatment in Chennai may involve medication, physiotherapy, activity modification or surgery, depending on the diagnosis, severity of symptoms and the individual’s overall health.
Hip Pain Treatment in Chennai: Understanding Your Treatment Options
Hip pain can arise from several conditions, and the same treatment may not be suitable for everyone. Some patients may benefit from medication and rehabilitation, while others with advanced joint damage may need surgical assessment.
At Bharath Orthopaedics, information about hip conditions, their assessment and available treatment approaches can help patients understand the options discussed during an orthopaedic consultation.
Dr. Bharath Loganathan’s clinical practice includes the assessment and management of hip conditions, including primary and revision hip replacement surgery. Treatment recommendations depend on individual clinical findings and patient requirements.
Patients should discuss their symptoms, investigation results, treatment alternatives and recovery expectations with their treating doctor before making a decision.
About Dr. Bharath Loganathan – Orthopaedic Surgeon
Dr. Bharath Loganathan-Orthopaedic Surgeon, MBBS, MS (Orthopaedic Surgery), MRCS (Edinburgh)
Dr. Bharath Loganathan is an orthopaedic surgeon based in Chennai. His clinical practice includes the evaluation and management of hip and knee conditions, primary and revision joint replacement procedures, and other musculoskeletal problems.
He completed his MBBS at Stanley Medical College, Chennai, followed by an MS in Orthopaedic Surgery from Grant Medical College and JJ Group of Hospitals, Mumbai. He also holds the MRCS qualification from the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.
His additional training includes the Ranawat Adult Joint Reconstruction Fellowship, Rothman Ranawat Travel Fellowship and advanced training in hip and knee joint replacement.
His clinical areas of practice include:
- Assessment of hip joint conditions.
- Total hip replacement.
- Revision hip replacement.
- Knee replacement procedures.
- Management of other orthopaedic conditions.
What are the Common Causes of Hip Pain?
The hip is a ball-and-socket joint that connects the thigh bone (femur) to the pelvis. It supports body weight and allows the leg to move in different directions. Several conditions can affect this joint and its surrounding structures.
Common causes include:
1. Hip Osteoarthritis
Hip osteoarthritis develops when the protective cartilage covering the joint gradually wears down. This can cause pain, stiffness and difficulty with movement. Symptoms may become more noticeable while walking, climbing stairs or getting up from a chair.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in the joints. When the hip is affected, patients may experience pain, stiffness and restricted movement.
3. Hip Fractures and Injuries
Falls, road traffic accidents and other injuries can cause fractures around the hip. Older adults, particularly those with reduced bone strength, may be more vulnerable to fractures following a fall.
4. Avascular Necrosis of the Hip
Avascular necrosis occurs when the blood supply to the femoral head is reduced, causing bone tissue to deteriorate. Without appropriate assessment, the condition may progress and affect the shape and function of the hip joint.
5. Bursitis and Tendon Problems
Inflammation of the bursae or irritation of the tendons surrounding the hip can cause pain, particularly on the outer side of the hip. Discomfort may increase when lying on the affected side or walking for extended periods.
6. Muscle Strain and Sports Injuries
Overuse, sudden movements and sports-related injuries can affect the muscles and soft tissues around the hip. These conditions may cause tenderness, discomfort and difficulty moving the affected leg.
What are the Symptoms of Hip Problems?
Hip problems do not always cause pain in the same location. Symptoms can vary depending on the affected structure and underlying condition.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain in the groin, hip, buttocks or upper thigh.
- Stiffness after waking up or sitting for a long time.
- Discomfort while walking or climbing stairs.
- Difficulty bending the hip or rotating the leg.
- Pain when getting in and out of a vehicle.
- Reduced ability to participate in physical activities.
- Limping or changes in walking pattern.
- Discomfort that sometimes extends towards the knee.
Some patients initially notice pain only after physical activity. As the underlying condition progresses, symptoms may also occur during routine activities or at rest.
Persistent or worsening symptoms should be assessed by a medical professional.
When Should You Consult an Orthopaedic Doctor for Hip Pain?
Occasional discomfort after strenuous activity may settle with appropriate rest. However, persistent pain, restricted movement or difficulty walking should not be ignored.
Consider medical evaluation if:
- Hip pain continues for several days or keeps returning.
- You experience stiffness that affects daily activities.
- Walking becomes difficult because of pain.
- You notice reduced movement in the affected hip.
- Pain interferes with sleep.
- You have a history of hip injury or previous joint problems.
When to seek urgent medical attention: Severe pain following a fall or accident, inability to put weight on the leg, sudden severe hip pain, or hip pain accompanied by fever and a hot or swollen joint requires urgent medical assessment. Do not attempt to walk on a potentially fractured hip.
How is Hip Pain Diagnosed?
The treatment approach depends on identifying the actual source of pain. An orthopaedic assessment generally involves reviewing symptoms, medical history and physical examination findings.
Depending on the clinical situation, the following investigations may be recommended.
1. Physical Examination
The doctor evaluates hip movement, walking pattern, tenderness, joint flexibility and leg alignment. This helps identify whether the pain may be related to the hip joint or surrounding structures.
2. X-ray
An X-ray can help identify fractures, joint-space narrowing, bone changes and signs of osteoarthritis.
3. MRI Scan
An MRI may be recommended when further assessment of cartilage, tendons, muscles, bone marrow or other soft tissues is necessary.
4. Ultrasound
Ultrasound may help assess certain soft-tissue conditions, including fluid accumulation and tendon abnormalities.
5. Blood Tests
Blood investigations may be considered when an inflammatory condition, infection or another systemic problem is suspected.
Not every patient requires all these investigations. The choice depends on the symptoms and clinical findings.
What are the Treatment Options for Hip Pain?
Hip pain treatment depends on its underlying cause, severity and impact on mobility. Surgery is not necessary for every patient. Many conditions can initially be managed with non-surgical treatment.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Medications: Depending on the diagnosis, a doctor may recommend pain-relieving or anti-inflammatory medication. The choice of medicine should consider the patient’s age, medical history, kidney function and other medications.
Physiotherapy: A physiotherapy programme may include appropriate strengthening exercises, flexibility training and movement education. The exercises are selected according to the patient’s condition and functional ability.
Activity Modification: Temporarily reducing activities that aggravate the pain may help. Patients may need to adjust exercise routines, avoid excessive joint loading and gradually return to normal activities.
Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy body weight can help reduce mechanical stress on the hip joint, particularly in patients with osteoarthritis.
Walking Support: A walking stick or other assistive device may be recommended when pain or weakness affects balance and mobility.
Joint Injections: In selected cases, an image-guided corticosteroid injection may be considered for short-term symptom relief. Its suitability depends on the diagnosis, expected benefits and potential risks.
Surgical Treatment Options for Hip Problems
Surgery may be considered when there is significant joint damage, a fracture requiring surgical management or persistent functional limitation despite appropriate non-surgical care.
The procedure depends on the specific condition.
Total Hip Replacement
Total hip replacement involves replacing the damaged femoral head and the affected socket surfaces with artificial components. It may be considered in patients with advanced hip osteoarthritis or other conditions causing substantial joint damage.
Partial Hip Replacement
In a partial hip replacement, the femoral head is replaced while the natural socket is retained. It is commonly considered for selected hip fractures, depending on the fracture pattern and the patient’s condition.
Hip Arthroscopy
Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used for selected conditions involving structures inside the joint, such as certain labral tears or femoroacetabular impingement.
Revision Hip Replacement
Revision surgery may be required when an existing hip replacement develops complications such as loosening, infection, instability or wear. The procedure depends on the nature of the problem.
The decision to undergo surgery should follow a detailed discussion of the diagnosis, available alternatives, expected benefits, possible complications and rehabilitation requirements.
What Can You Do to Maintain Hip Joint Health?
Healthy habits may help maintain mobility and support overall joint function.
- Include suitable low-impact activities such as walking, swimming or cycling.
- Follow an exercise programme appropriate for your physical condition.
- Maintain a healthy body weight.
- Avoid suddenly increasing exercise intensity.
- Use proper techniques while lifting heavy objects.
- Follow medical advice after an injury.
- Seek assessment when pain persists or affects normal movement.
People with an existing hip condition should discuss suitable exercises with their healthcare professional before starting a new routine.
Treatment recommendations are based on individual clinical assessment, investigation findings and the patient’s overall health.
Read also: Hip Orthopedic Doctor in Chennai