How Can a Physiotherapist Help With Hip Pain?

What signs and symptoms might I feel?

• Hip pain can vary in terms of location (i.e. side of the hip, groin area, buttock)
• It can also be sharp and intense or feel like a dull ache-it can be worse in the morning or more painful at night
• It can also come on quickly or develop slowly
• You might feel a locking or snapping sensation
• The area could be tender to touch-it might be difficult to navigate stairs, go for a long walk or even sleep comfortably
• It might be painful to lie on the affected side

What is the cause of the pain?

-an assessment will ascertain the cause of the pain. Some of the structures which can cause pain include:

• Bursae around the hip (small fluid-filled sacs)
• Muscles/tendons in the hip or core
• Joints in the area
• An entrapped nerve
• Muscle imbalances
• Reduced joint mobility
• Osteoarthritis
• Another area of the body

How can a physiotherapist help?

A physio will assess your condition and determine a treatment plan specific for you. This could consist of manual therapy, neurodynamics, mobility exercises, a stretching program, and a strengthening/endurance program. Your program might have stages and ultimately have a goal to prevent pain recurrence.

A physio might coach you on your body mechanics, a warm-up routine, or breaks you could take at work. It's a good idea to set short-and long-term goals together.

What type of treatment can you expect?

Each treatment plan is individualized. Your plan might include making changes in your posture and movement. It could work on your balance and coordination. There may be neurodynamic exercises to help with neural tension. Manual therapy and soft tissue techniques could be beneficial as well. Your plan is your own.

In summary, if you would like to have your condition assessed by one of our practitioners, you can easily reach out to our office at (902) 425-3775 and our team will be happy to assist you.