[57F] Experiencing hip and side pain

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be causing your hip and side pain:

• Osteoarthritis: This is a common form of arthritis that often affects older individuals. It occurs when the protective cartilage on the ends of your bones wears down over time, causing pain and stiffness in the joints. The hip is a common site of osteoarthritis.

  • Treatment usually involves a combination of lifestyle changes (like exercise and weight loss), physical therapy, and medications to manage pain and inflammation. In severe cases, joint replacement surgery might be necessary.

• Bursitis: This is inflammation of the bursa, a small, fluid-filled sac that cushions your hip joint. Bursitis can cause pain on the outer side of your hip, thigh, or buttock.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, physical therapy, and medications to reduce inflammation and pain. In some cases, a corticosteroid injection might be necessary.

• Kidney stones: These are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. Kidney stones can cause severe pain in your side or back, below your ribs.

  • Treatment usually involves drinking lots of water to help pass the stone, pain medications, and in some cases, medical procedures to break up or remove the stone.

• Muscular strain or injury: Overuse, strain, or injury to muscles and ligaments in the hip and side area can cause pain.

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

What you can do

It's important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. In the meantime, here are some things you can do to manage your symptoms:

1. Rest and avoid activities that worsen your pain.
2. Apply ice to the painful area for 15 minutes at a time to reduce inflammation.
3. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can help manage pain and inflammation.
4. Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve flexibility and strength around your hip, but these should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional to avoid further injury.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your pain is severe or sudden
• You have difficulty moving your hip or walking
• You have redness, swelling, or warmth around the joint
• You have unexplained weight loss or a fever

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for accurate information.