Determining the Cause

Chief Complaint: Hip Pain

 

Pivotal Assessment Findings
History

Acute Onset

 

  

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1. Medical History

The doctor will ask questions about:

  • Onset and Duration: When the pain started and how long it has persisted.
  • Nature of Pain: Whether it is sharp, dull, aching, or burning.
  • Location: Whether the pain is in the groin, side of the hip, buttock, or radiating down the leg.
  • Aggravating/Relieving Factors: Activities or positions that worsen or improve the pain.
  • Injuries: Any history of trauma or falls.
  • Associated Symptoms: Stiffness, swelling, numbness, or weakness.

2. Physical Examination

The doctor will assess:

  • Range of Motion: Both active and passive movements of the hip joint.
  • Gait Analysis: How you walk to identify any limping or compensatory movements.
  • Tenderness: Palpating around the hip for areas of sensitivity.
  • Strength Testing: Checking muscle strength around the hip.
  • Special Tests: Maneuvers like the FABER (Flexion, Abduction, and External Rotation) test to identify specific conditions like hip impingement or arthritis.

3. Imaging Studies

These help visualize the structures around the hip and may include:

  • X-rays: To check for fractures, arthritis, or alignment issues.
  • MRI: For soft tissue problems like labral tears, tendon injuries, or bursitis.
  • CT Scan: For detailed images of bone abnormalities or fractures.
  • Ultrasound: To assess bursitis or fluid collections.

4. Laboratory Tests

If inflammatory or systemic conditions are suspected, such as:

  • Blood Tests: To look for markers of infection, inflammation, or autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis or gout).
  • Joint Aspiration: Removing fluid from the hip joint to test for infection or crystals.

5. Common Diagnoses Based on Symptoms

  • Groin Pain: Often associated with hip joint problems like arthritis or labral tears.
  • Outer Hip Pain: Likely caused by trochanteric bursitis or iliotibial band syndrome.
  • Buttock Pain: Could indicate piriformis syndrome, sciatica, or sacroiliac joint dysfunction.
  • Referred Pain: Issues in the spine or pelvis can also cause hip pain.

Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent worsening of the condition and improve quality of life. If you're experiencing hip pain, consider seeing a healthcare provider for a tailored evaluation.

 

 

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Acute Onset: Sudden pain is often linked to trauma, fractures, or acute inflammation (e.g., bursitis or infection).

 

 

 

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