Does My Hip Pain Require Surgery?

Hip pain is a common complaint among people of all ages. It can be caused by various factors, including injuries, arthritis and overuse. While some cases of hip pain can be treated with rest, physical therapy and medication, others may require surgery.

Board-certified orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Farzin Kabaei at Robotic Hip and Knee Replacement LA, reviews the causes of hip pain and how determines whether surgery is necessary.

What Are the Causes of Hip Pain?

There are many possible causes of hip pain, including:

1. Osteoarthritis is the most common cause of hip pain in older adults. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that affects the cartilage in the joints. As the cartilage wears away, the bones rub against each other, causing pain and inflammation.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the hips.
3. Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursae, which are small sacs filled with fluid that cushion the joints. It can cause pain and swelling in the hips.
4. Tendinitis is the inflammation of the tendons that attach muscles to bones. It can cause pain and stiffness in the hips.
5. A Hip Fracture is a break in the hip bone. Hip fractures can cause severe pain and require surgery to repair.

Determining Whether Surgery is Necessary

If you are experiencing hip pain, seeing Dr. Kabaei for an accurate diagnosis is important. He will perform a physical exam and may order imaging tests, such as X-rays or an MRI, to determine the cause of your pain.

If your hip pain is caused by a mild injury, such as a strain or sprain, rest, ice and physical therapy may be all that is needed to relieve the pain. However, if your pain is caused by a more serious condition, such as a hip fracture or severe arthritis, surgery may be necessary.

In general, surgery may be necessary if:

• You have severe pain that is not relieved by non-surgical treatments.
• Your mobility is limited, and you are unable to perform daily activities.
• Your condition is getting worse over time.
• You have a significant loss of cartilage or bone in your hip joint.

Types of Hip Surgery

If surgery is necessary, there are several types of hip surgeries that may be recommended, including:

1. Hip replacement surgery: This is the most common type of hip surgery. During hip replacement surgery, the damaged hip joint is removed and replaced with an artificial joint.
2. Hip resurfacing surgery: This is a less invasive alternative to hip replacement surgery. During hip resurfacing surgery, the damaged bone and cartilage are removed and replaced with a metal cap.
3. Hip arthroscopy: This minimally invasive surgery treats certain hip conditions, such as hip impingement or labral tears.

Hip pain can be a debilitating condition that affects quality of life. While some cases can be treated with non-surgical methods, others may require surgery. If you are experiencing hip pain, seeing Dr. Kabaei for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan is important. Early intervention is key to preventing further damage and improving your overall quality of life.

Contact Robotic Hip and Knee Replacement LA in Los Angeles to schedule an exam and consultation.