Hip Pain Specialist

How Is Hip Pain Determined?

Despite its durability, the hip joint isn't indestructible. With age and use, the cartilage can wear down or become damaged. The location of the hip pain can help provide valuable information on the underlying cause. Problems within the hip joint will result in pain radiating on the inside of your hip or your groin. Hip pain present on the outside of your hip, upper thigh, or outer gluteal region is usually caused by problems with muscles, ligaments, tendons and other the other soft tissues that surround your hip joint. Along with the pain, you might have a reduced range of motion and possibly a limp.

How Is Hip Pain Treated?

Depending on the source of the pain, treatment can include any of the following:

• Hip fracture - Hip fractures are surgically treated with external fixation or with traction.
• Hip instability – This can involve referral to a physical therapist for exercises focused on improving your strength, balance, and flexibility. Minimally invasive surgery might be necessary depending on your condition.
• Hip resurfacing - Hip resurfacing involves replacing the ball and socket joint of the hip with plastic, metal, or ceramic prosthetics.

What Is A Total Hip Replacement?

Total hip replacement is also referred to as total hip arthroplasty. It is a surgical procedure where the diseased ball and socket joint is removed and replaced with a metal or ceramic ball and stem. This is inserted into the femur bone along with an artificial plastic cup socket. They are fixed in place with bone cement. Total hip replacements are performed because of severe arthritis in the hip joint. Replacement is usually considered after hip pain becomes so severe that it impedes normal function. A thorough understanding of the process should be considered before making the decision. Contact Dr. Karsch’s office to discuss procedures and treatments for hip pain and questions you may have about total hip replacement.