In adults aged 60 and older, research shows that about 12% to 15% of people experience hip pain. If you’re someone who struggles with hip pain, you’re probably aware of how much it can impact your ability to perform everyday activities.

Do you have hip pain that is interfering with your life? Take a look at the sections below to learn more about the causes of this type of condition and how physical therapy may be able to ease it.

What are some of the most common issues that can cause hip pain?

• Inflammation of the tendons — Inflammation of the tendons, also known as tendinitis, can occur anywhere in the body where there are tendons — this includes the hips. The tendons in the hips can become inflamed with overuse. When the tendons become inflamed, it can trigger pain and discomfort.

• Inflammation of the bursae — Inflammation of the bursae, also called bursitis, is a condition that occurs when the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints become inflamed. This can cause significant pain and irritation, especially when located in the hip joints.

• Hip impingement syndrome — Hip impingement syndrome can happen when the ball and joint in the cup of the hip socket push up against each other. This contact with the hip ball and cup is abnormal and may cause pain and stiffness.

• Cartilage tear — Cartilage tears in the hip, called labrum tears, can result from a traumatic injury or repetitive motions. A torn labrum can cause discomfort and pain until it heals appropriately.

• Pelvic floor weakness — Pelvic floor disorders are common in pregnant women and may cause discomfort in the pelvic regions. They often consist of muscle weakness, which can extend to the hips.

• Osteoarthritis — Osteoarthritis is a condition that occurs when the cartilage at the end of the joint degenerates over time. It can cause stiffness and difficulty walking.

What are some physical therapy techniques that can help ease hip pain?

• Graston Technique® — The Graston Technique is an instrument-assisted form of physical therapy treatment that can be used to improve the muscle function around the joints in the hips. Improved muscle function may help ease hip pain.

• Myofascial release — Myofascial release is another technique that can be used during physical therapy to help ease hip pain. It’s a manual technique that can release muscle tension that may be contributing to pain.

• Pelvic floor exercises — Pelvic floor exercises can improve pelvic floor function and reduce pain in the abdomen, hips, and lower back too. If pelvic floor syndrome is the cause of your hip pain, pelvic floor-centered exercises usually offer relief.

• Joint mobilization therapy — If your hip joints are the cause of your pain, joint mobilization therapy may be an effective treatment. It involves gentle hip movements to reduce stiffness and improve the range of motion in your affected joints.

• Home exercise — Physical therapists will most likely send you home from each session with exercises that you can perform on your own. These are meant to supplement the treatment you receive during your sessions and improve your chances of successful treatment.

Lattimore PT will work to ease your hip pain through physical therapy

Our team of talented physical therapists spread across the state is dedicated to understanding the treatment that works best for you. We specialize in taking a “hands-on,” interactive approach with each of our patients to provide them with the best care possible. We love to see our patients thrive, which is why we’ll do as much as we can to help get them to that point. The physical therapists at each of our Lattimore locations take pride in their work and do their best to come to the clinic each day with a smiling face. We aim to make each physical therapy session enjoyable yet productive. The ultimate mark of success, to us, is a patient who feels positively impacted by our work. Are you ready to experience “the Lattimore way”?

Is hip pain interfering with your daily activities? Physical therapy may be able to help relieve some of that pain. You can take your pain into your own hands by scheduling an initial session with us. Let us be your trusted partner in getting back on track toward improved quality of life and reduced hip pain. Don’t wait to get the relief you’re looking for. Reach out to us as soon as possible.

Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.