Hip Pain

Hip pain can be caused by the ball and socket hip joint or from pain referred from your lower back. Kevin M. Moran, MD, in The Woodlands, Texas, is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon. Dr. Moran offers various treatments for hip and spine pain. He takes a conservative, patient-centered approach emphasizing healthy lifestyle changes and minimally invasive procedures. Call Kevin M. Moran, MD, today to receive treatment for hip pain, or book your appointment online.

When should I see an orthopedic specialist about hip pain?

Make an appointment with Dr. Moran if you have hip pain that lasts more than a week and doesn’t improve with at-home care. That’s especially true if the pain is severe and radiates below your knee.

Identifying the cause can keep the problem from worsening and restore your mobility and independence.

What causes hip pain?

Hip pain occurs for various reasons, including:

• Arthritis
• Bursitis
• Inflamed tendons
• Fractures
• Osteonecrosis (lack of blood flow to a bone)
• Torn cartilage in the hip (labral tear)
• Referred pain from the lower back

How is hip pain diagnosed?

Dr. Moran reviews your medical records and asks about your hip pain, including the frequency and intensity of the pain, whether it affects your ability to walk, and when it first appeared. 

Next, Dr. Moran examines your hip, thigh, and upper leg. He gently presses on your hip joint and the surrounding skin to pinpoint sensitive areas and asks you to walk so he can observe your joint in motion.

Last, Dr. Moran orders diagnostic imaging, like X-rays or an MRI, to check for fractures or soft tissue injuries.

How is hip pain treated?

Dr. Moran treats hip pain using a conservative and minimally invasive approach. He might recommend:

• Medication to relieve pain or stiffness
• Ice and heat therapy
• Physical therapy
• Corticosteroid injections

If your hip pain continues or worsens even after conservative treatment, you might benefit from surgery. 

Can hip pain be prevented?

The easiest way to reduce your risk of hip pain is to have an active lifestyle. Dr. Moran recommends practicing good posture, maintaining a healthy weight, and incorporating strength training into your workouts. These small practices can help keep your joints healthy and mobile. 

Call Kevin M. Moran, MD, today to explore the treatment options for hip pain, or book your appointment online.