Hip / Groin Pain

Hip Osteoarthritis (OA)

Osteoarthritis Arthritis reflects degeneration and changes in a joint that includes joint space narrowing, cartilage destruction, and abnormal bony outgrowths. Sometimes injury, stress, genetics and weight can contribute. Use of the joint can become painful, and there can be remarkable inflammation with this condition. 

Osteoarthritis is common in joints that bear weight such as the hip and knee. Patients with hip OA report pain and stiffness with waking in the morning which tends to loosen up within ½ hour.  There can be associated weakness and reduction in motion at the hip joint.  When osteoarthritis becomes so severe that it impacts daily function, surgery may be required for resurfacing or replacement. However, physiotherapy can rehabilitate a knee such that pain is controlled and strength is maintained, thus potentially sparing a surgery. Although physiotherapy cannot reverse the damage to a joint, physiotherapists can identify your deficits and work with you on a program to improve your function. 

If your healthcare team has recommended surgery, it is still imperative to have physiotherapy to optimize the condition of your joint pre and post-surgery.

Hip Bursitis

Bursae are fluid filled sacs that help reduce friction and improve support at interfaces of bones, muscles and joints in our bodies. Most commonly, the trochanteric bursa, which is located on the side of the hip joint can become irritated and inflamed. This can happen as a result of an injury, weak muscles in the hip, improper gait or body mechanics. Management will typically involve modalities such as laser and acupuncture, followed by stretches and strengthening exercises to improve the deficits and optimize the movement.