While running or performing other high-impact physical activities, the hip joint absorbs a large amount of force. Repetitive high-impact activities and overuse may sometimes cause a stress fracture in the hip. In severe cases, an orthopedic surgery may be required.
A stress fracture refers to a break in the bone that happens when small injuries to the bone build-up to a point where the bone is unable to repair itself.
It is important to diagnose stress fractures in the hip and address these swiftly as they can cause serious damage to the hip joint if left untreated, even in young athletes.
Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI), led by board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan, provides hip stress fracture treatments to patients in North Hollywood, Los Angeles, and other cities and towns in this part of the nation.
Symptoms of a Hip Stress Fracture
Stress fractures of the hip lead to pain and discomfort in the groin as well as the front part of the hip that is activity-related. A majority of individuals with stress fracture will have pain that dissipates with rest. However, if they ignore the pain and the stress fracture worsens, then the pain can be persistent.
Women, runners, and individuals with low body mass index (BMI) are usually at the highest level of risk for stress fractures. But anyone person who undergoes a quick increase in activity is at-risk for developing a stress fracture.
Diagnosing Stress Fractures
While the doctor may suspect a stress fracture due to the patient’s symptoms and exam, imaging will be required to confirm the diagnosis. A stress fracture may be visible on x-ray. However, in many instances, x-rays are not comprehensive enough to display subtle fractures.
If the x-rays are normal, then the orthopedic surgeon may recommend an MRI or bone scan for a more precise diagnosis of a stress fracture. The location where stress fractures of the hip occur is known as the femoral neck. This is the area where the hip joint attaches to the femur (thigh bone).
Treatment
The seriousness of the stress fracture in the hip determines the treatment. In mild instances of fracture, the surgeon may prescribe crutches and modification in activities till the symptoms subside. In serious cases where the area of the fracture is substantial, or the symptoms persist despite rest, the surgeon may recommend surgery to address the fracture.
If the stress fracture is not identified and the person continues to remain active, the fracture may worsen. This can cause a complete break in the bone. This can have severe implications warranting urgent orthopedic surgery. It is essential to identify a stress fracture early to avoid serious consequences.
Poor nutrition may lead to low energy levels. If an individual persists with a physical training regimen or strenuous physical work in such condition, it may lead to stress fracture.
Prevention
Increasing the calcium and Vitamin D intake in the diet helps avoid stress fractures. Milk and yogurt are easy food sources of these nutrients. This is especially vital if the patient has a family history of osteoporosis.
Following the 10 percent rule is useful. Do not increase your running mileage per week by over 10 percent. Training the hips and core is vitally important. Strong muscles in the glutes, core, legs, and hips offer more support to the hip joints against repetitive impact.
Committed orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan receives patients from North Hollywood, Los Angeles, and other suburbs and towns in this section of the state for hip stress fracture treatments.
Dr. Tigran Garabekyan is a board certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip preservation. To learn more about Southern California Hip Institute or to schedule a consultation, click here to contact us or call:
North Hollywood: 818.755.6500
Century City / Los Angeles: 310.595.1030
Serving patients in Encino, Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys, North Hollywood, Burbank, Glendale, West Hollywood, Century City, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Los Angeles, and other neighboring cities in the greater Los Angeles, California area.
Also visit http://www.drgorthopedics.com/
