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Hip/Pelvis

The hip is a ball-and-socket joint that connects the femur (thighbone) to the pelvis. The femoral head, or ball at the top of the femur, fits into the acetabulum, a circular socket in the pelvis. The pelvis consists of three bones—the ilium, pubis and ischium—that frequently merge during adolescence.

Various muscles, including the psoas flexors, abductors, gluteals and adductors, work together to support the hip movement, whereas tendons and ligaments join these muscles to the bones. The labrum, a disc of cartilage surrounding the joint, helps absorb shock and ensures smooth motion.

A strong and stable hip or pelvis is essential for balance, enabling us to stand, run, walk, and jump by effectively supporting body weight during movement.

Hip or Pelvis Pain

Pain in the hip or pelvis region can originate around the skin surface or deep in the groin. Usually, surface pain signals an injury to tendons, muscles or ligaments, whereas deeper discomfort may point to a problem with the bone or cartilage. If left untreated, some hip conditions can as well cause pain to radiate into the lower back or upper leg.

The nature of the pain can vary depending on the underlying cause. Some conditions result in a persistent, dull ache, while others may cause sharp pain during movement.

Hip/Pelvic Symptoms

Common symptoms of hip and pelvis problems comprise:

  • Pain around the hip joint, buttocks, lower back, or thighs
  • Stiffness and reduced mobility, which may worsen with activity or after long periods of inactivity (like sleeping)
  • Difficulty bearing weight on the affected hip
  • Swelling or bruising along with discomfort
  • Catching, locking, or instability sensation in the joint

Hip/Pelvis Conditions

Hip and pelvis conditions can interfere with daily activities and limit mobility. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to recovery; this is whether it stems from an injury, overuse, or an underlying condition.

The common conditions affecting the hip and pelvis include:

  • Iliopsoas tendinopathy
  • Trochanteric bursitis
  • Osteitis pubis
  • Osteoarthritis of the hip or pelvis
  • Proximal hamstring tendinopathy
  • Femoral acetabular impingement (FAI)
  • Sacroiliitis

When to See a GP for Hip/Pelvic Pain

If hip pain is affecting your daily life by limiting mobility, disrupting sleep, or preventing you from enjoying hobbies, it’s time to seek medical advice. Most hip and pelvis disorders can be managed without surgery. Lifestyle adjustments, physiotherapy, medications or injections are some of the non-surgical options.

You may want to see a specialist if:

  • Your pain persists despite trying home remedies or non-invasive treatments.
  • You suspect an underlying condition or injury to be the cause your discomfort.
  • You experience sudden, severe, or burning pain, especially after a fall or sports injury.
  • You can’t bear weight on your leg or have numbness in your hip, which may require urgent care.

During your consultation, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and may recommend tests to determine the best course of treatment. Keeping notes on the following can help:

  • The nature of your pain—does it worsen with motion or prolonged rest?
  • When it started and whether a specific event, like a fall, triggered it.
  • Any additional symptoms, such as swelling, loss of balance or numbness.
  • Treatments or medications you’ve already tried.

Hip/Pelvis Treatment Options

The best treatment for hip or pelvis pain frequently depends on the severity of your condition as well as symptoms. Common options include:

Conservative treatments:

  • RICE method – Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation may be helpful in managing initial hip pain and support healing. Avoiding strenuous activities may also allow the joint to recover.
  • Medication – Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs can assist in easing discomfort and swelling, allowing you to move more easily while symptoms improve.
  • Physiotherapy – Targeted exercises and stretches can alleviate muscular pain and tendon or ligament strains. Physiotherapy may be combined with rest and medication for optimal recovery.

Surgical treatments:

If non-surgical methods do not relieve symptoms or a serious hip/pelvis condition is diagnosed, surgery may be necessary. Common procedures include:

  • Hip arthroscopy (keyhole surgery) – A minimally invasive procedure that uses a small camera and instruments. Doctors utilise this method in order to diagnose and treat various hip or pelvis conditions including cartilage damage.
  • Hip impingement surgery (FAI surgery) – Typically performed via arthroscopy, this procedure reshapes the hip joint to improve movement and reduce pain.
  • Hip replacement – If other treatments are ineffective, replacing the damaged joint with a prosthetic can significantly improve the quality of life.
  • Hip revision surgery – If a previous hip replacement wears out or fails, a revision procedure may be needed so as to restore function.
  • Hip resurfacing – This alternative to full hip replacement preserves more of the natural bone. It is frequently ideal for younger male patients with strong bone structures.

Don’t let hip or pelvis pain hold you back. Book an appointment today to receive a comprehensive evaluation and a tailored treatment plan designed to get you moving pain-free again.