[51F] Experiencing steady hip pain

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

• Hip Flexor Strain: This is a strain or tear in one or more of the hip flexor muscles, causing pain in the front of the hip or groin. This condition is common in athletes and people who perform high-intensity activities, but it can also occur in people who don't regularly engage in strenuous physical activity.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), along with physical therapy and pain management.

• Hip Osteoarthritis: This is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the cartilage that cushions your hip joint wears down over time. It can cause pain and stiffness in the hip, which can worsen after periods of inactivity or in the morning.

  • Treatment usually involves lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and medications to manage pain and inflammation. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

• Hip Bursitis: This is inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that helps reduce friction in your hip joint. It can cause pain on the outside of your hip, thigh, or buttock. However, some people may feel pain closer to the groin area.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Physical therapy and corticosteroid injections may also be helpful.

• Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI): This is a condition where the bones of the hip are abnormally shaped and do not fit together perfectly. The hip bones rub against each other and cause damage to the joint. The pain is often felt in the groin area.

  • Treatment can include conservative management with physical therapy and pain management, or surgical intervention for severe cases.

What you can do

1. Rest and avoid activities that make your pain worse.
2. Apply ice to the painful area for 15 minutes at a time to help reduce inflammation.
3. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen can help manage your pain. However, these should be used sparingly and only as directed on the package.
4. Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve flexibility and strength in your hip. However, these should be done under the guidance of a physical therapist or healthcare provider to avoid further injury.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your pain becomes severe or unbearable.
• You have difficulty moving your hip or leg.
• You notice swelling, redness, or warmth over your hip.
• Your symptoms do not improve with rest and over-the-counter pain relievers.

Remember, while these suggestions can help guide you, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.