As some of the largest joints in the body, the hips play an important role in walking, standing, sitting and performing a whole host of other activities. When hip pain occurs, it can take a considerable toll on your mobility and activity level, and the joint stiffness and reduced range of motion that often accompany hip pain can make it even harder to perform your daily routine. As a leading chiropractor in Oceanside, New York, Dr. William V. Salvatore offers holistic, patient-centered hip pain relief for patients of all ages. He believes every patient is entitled to affordable, convenient, customized and effective chiropractic care, and he works with each patient to understand their concerns and relieve the source of pain.

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What are the most common causes of hip pain?

The hip joints bear a lot of weight during the day, whether you’re walking, standing or even sitting. It’s no surprise that one of the most common causes of hip pain is overuse or repetitive use, followed by the wear and tear of aging. Over time, these issues can result in joint tissue destruction and arthritis, causing long-term pain, joint stiffness and a loss of mobility. Other causes of hip pain include:

  • Bone spurs
  • Spinal stenosis
  • Sciatica
  • Herniated discs
  • Traumatic injury, including sprains and strains
  • Knee injuries
  • Obesity
  • Spending long periods of time standing

Even poor posture can cause or contribute to hip pain, and so can improper lifting technique.

How do herniated discs contribute to hip pain?

Most people think all hip pain must begin in the hips, but often, spine-related issues can cause hip pain as well. Herniated discs occur when a spongy disc normally located between the spine bones (vertebrae) slips out of its normal position and becomes “pinched” by the vertebrae, resulting in nerve irritation and compression that can cause painful symptoms radiating into the hips. Spinal misalignment can also result in uneven strain and stress on the hip joints as well.

What treatments are available for hip pain?

Hip pain treatment begins with a hands-on evaluation to locate the specific source of pain. Diagnostic imaging may also be ordered. Treatment options include spinal adjustments to relieve nerve compression and improve both nerve signaling and circulation so inflammation and irritation are relieved. Therapeutic exercises and hot and cold therapy can be very helpful in stimulating and supporting natural healing so patients can avoid long-term use of potentially harmful medications.

How long will my treatment last?

The duration of treatment for hip pain will depend on the underlying cause of painful symptoms as well as the patient’s overall health, lifestyle factors, and other issues. Acute hip pain may be relieved in just 1 or 2 treatment sessions, followed by at-home therapeutic exercises to strengthen the tissues surrounding the joints and improve joint function and mobility. Chronic issues like arthritis typically respond well to ongoing treatments tailored to the patient’s evolving needs and symptoms.