The hip joint is a vital component of the pelvis, it is strong, stable and at the same time allows a huge range of movement. The stability of the hip joint is essential for the weight-bearing capabilities, because it acts as the connector between the legs and the torso. Considering the trauma that the hip joint is put through on a daily basis, it very rarely causes severe problems, until later in life.

Having said this, hip pain can be extremely worrying and often debilitating, as any restriction in movement has a huge impact on quality of life. There are many causes of this problem. Below are a few common examples:

Arthritis is among the most frequent causes of hip pain (see page on Arthritis) and is on the increase due to current eating habits. Excess acidity and/or excess weight through the hip joint, over a period of time can result in early arthritic conditions, which Myosteopractic is well-equipped to help. If replacement surgery is indicated then Myosteopractic can significantly assist with the aftercare.

Avascular necrosis is a disease resulting from the temporary or permanent loss of blood supply to an area of bone. Without blood, the bone tissue dies and the bone collapses. If avascular necrosis involves the bones of a joint, it often leads to destruction of the joint articular surfaces. While it can affect any bone, and half of cases show multiple sites of damage, avascular necrosis primarily affects the joints at the shoulder, knee, and hip. This is a serious condition with joint replacement often being the solution.

Trochanteric bursitis is a common problem that causes inflammation of the bursa (protective pad of tissue under a muscle, ligament and tendon) over the outside of the hip joint. This is usually brought on by an increase of activity.

Tendonitis can occur in any of the tendons that surround the hip joint. The possible causes are overuse or an unaccustomed activity. Lower Back Problems can refer pain to the hip area due to the nerve supply from the lower back to the hip. Often a diffuse pain or tingling sensation can appear.

Snapping hip syndrome where a clicking sound occurs over the hip joint. This can be caused when muscles or ligaments are in a state of imbalance and therefore “flick” over the joint line. It is not always accompanied by hip pain, but can be linked with a muscle strain. On occasion the cause could be a tear of the cartilage around the hip socket which can cause a snapping sensation.

Hip fractures are most common in people with osteoporosis; usually, but not exclusively elderly people.

Apart from the common specific conditions listed above there are a great deal many anatomical problems which could cause hip problems. For example, any foot, ankle and knee problems will certainly impact the hip, as this is where the leg joins the pelvis. Similarly, any structural problems involving the spine and pelvis could disrupt the hip joint.

Myosteopractic assists by releasing the excessive tension around the hip joint, as well as aligning the pelvis, back and locating other areas that may contribute to the cause of pain.