Hip

The hip joint is a ball and socket joint, which is formed by the head of the femur and the acetabulum of the pelvis. As a weight bearing joint, the hip is supported by strong muscles and ligaments.

The most common cause of hip pain is Osteoarthritis presenting as stiffness and pain. The pain is aggravated during weight bearing activities and is activity dependent, therefore, the more that you do the more painful it becomes. In more severe cases the pain can be constant, restricting range of movement and ‘creaking’ or ‘crunching’ with activity. Occasionally the joint may appear to “give way” due to weak musculature or a loss of stability in the joint structure.

Although the degenerative process cannot be reversed, it can be slowed down. A Chartered Physiotherapist can help to effectively manage your symptoms. Treatment may consist of joint mobilisations; manual traction; soft tissue mobilisations; stretching; strengthening; electrotherapy and Acupuncture in addition to a tailored home exercise programme.

Other Conditions:

• Trochanteric Bursitis
• Fractures or Dislocations
• Labrum Tear
• “Snapping Hip” Syndrome
• Hip Osteonecrosis
• Iliotibial Band Syndrome
• Piriformis Syndrome
• Femoroacetabular Impingement