BLOG : Experiencing hip pain? We’re here to help

28th, May 2024

Hip pain can significantly impact quality of life, affecting mobility, sleep and over well-being. Whether you are suffering from a dull ache or sharp discomfort, hip pain should never be ignored. In this blog, we delve into the various causes of hip pain, common symptoms and available treatment options.

Many younger adults do not recognise the symptoms of having a hip problem and do not seek treatment. This can lead to worsening of the problem and may lead to early wear and tear of the joint and the need for a hip replacement in individuals as young as 30. Hip pain as a symptom can often go unnoticed as it is commonly mistaken for groin strain, especially in those who exercise and play sports.

However hip pain can be caused by the following:

1. Osteoarthritis: This is a degenerative joint disease which commonly affects the hip joints, leading to pain, stiffness and reduced range of motion. It is caused by normal wear and tear and is the most frequent cause of hip pain in older adults.
2. Hip Fractures: Fractures are often seen in older adults due to falls or osteoporosis and can cause severe pain. Often hip fractures will require immediate medical attention.
3. Hip Injury: Car accidents or sport-related injuries can create immediate hip pain and problems later in life.
4. Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons around the hip joint can result in hip pain.
5. Hip Dysplasia: This is a condition where the hip socket is too shallow, causing instability and pain especially in younger individuals.
6. Sciatica: Compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips and down the legs can cause hip pain along with radiating leg pain.

If you start to notice a groin strain that is persistent and doesn’t get better with Physiotherapy, or other symptoms such as a stiff hip, difficulty bending down, trouble sitting for long periods or stiffness when getting up after being seated please seek medical advice before any potential problems worsen.

 

What can Kingsbridge offer for hip pain?

At Kingsbridge Private Hospital Group we have a full range of specialists who can assess, diagnosis and treat hip pain from our GPs, Physiotherapists, Radiologists and Orthopaedic Consultants. You can be sure of a seamless pathway from referral to surgery if required and we provide a complete care package for full or partial hip replacement procedures. 

 

What does Hip Replacement Surgery involve?

Hip replacement is one of the most common procedures performed for hip pain. This operation involves replacing a damaged or worn hip joint with an artificial version which provides long term relief from hip joint pain for many patients. 

In a normal hip joint the ‘ball’ at the top of your thigh bone (femur) moves smoothly in the ‘socket’ of your pelvis, which has a lining of shiny cartilage. The cartilage stops your bones from rubbing together and has no feeling (like fingernails). If this cartilage becomes worn away, the underlying bone becomes exposed and your joint will be painful and stiff, making walking and moving around painful. A new hip joint can help improve your mobility and reduce the pain.

 

What is the process of getting Hip Replacement Surgery?

At Kingsbridge Private Hospital we take care of the complete patient journey, from consultation to investigations to surgery, if required. Your safety and wellbeing is of paramount importance and our experienced team of expert Consultant Surgeons and nurses ensure you are always in safe hands.

At your consultation in Kingsbridge Private Hospital you will meet with an Orthopaedic Consultant who will assess your hip condition and will be able to provide information and advice on surgery to relieve your discomfort.

Each consultation is personalised to suit your needs but normal topics that will be covered include:

• How a hip replacement is carried out
• Advice on having a hip replacement
• Advice on having a hip revision
• Possible alternatives to having a hip replacement
• Preparing for hip replacement
• What happens during the surgery
• What to expect afterwards
• Recovering from hip replacement
• Risks of having a hip replacement 
• Your Consultant will explain all options that are available to you at your appointment.

 

Finance

Are you considering treatment, but are unsure about the best way to pay for it? If so, you might be interested in the simple payment plans we offer to fund your treatment, allowing you to spread the cost over a time period to suit you. For more information on our treatment payment plans, please click here. 

 

Hip procedures are available across our Belfast and Ballykelly (North West) hospitals. To arrange a consultation with one of our specialists, please visit our Online Booking Portal.

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