Iliac crest refers to the part at the top of the hip that lies close to the skin and forms the wing-shaped part of the pelvis on which a person will sometimes rest their hands.
Iliac crest pain may also spread to other parts of the body, including the groin, back, and abdomen. The area where the pain is felt depends on the underlying cause.
Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI), led by board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan, provides orthopedic surgery to patients in Los Angeles, Century City, CA, and surrounding communities.
Causes of Iliac Crest Pain
Weak Muscles
To support the joints and move properly, strong core muscles are necessary. Hip pain may occur if the lower back muscles or abdominal muscles are weak.
Trauma
The iliac crest can sustain damage during a trauma, such as a car crash or a fall. This can cause pain and tenderness in the hip region, and at times, in the lower back.
In case of a serious fall where a person lands on the front or upper portion of the iliac crest, it is known as a hip pointer.
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
Lower back, groin, or abdomen may occur due to damage to or swelling in the sacroiliac joint.
This joint is in the pelvis and joins the iliac crest to the lower portion of the spine. It may sustain damage due to aging, arthritis, or exercise, such as jogging.
The pain often initiates in one side of the lower back and butt. It can extend up to the lower hip, upper thigh, or groin.
People may also experience tingling, numbness, or weakness in their leg. The symptoms may worsen when sleeping, sitting, or walking up and down stairs.
Ilium Apophysitis
An apophysis refers to a type of growth plate and the point on a bone where the muscles are connected. It is the region of the bone that the rest of the bone grows from. Therefore, it is the last area of the bone to completely harder. It is relatively soft in children and teens.
In case the muscles are repeatedly pulled from the growth plate, say, during sports, it can become inflamed and irritated, or even be pulled off the bone. Once growth has finished, and the bone hardens fully, the condition will resolve itself.
Ilium apophysitis develops in children and teenagers. It occurs due to overuse and causes a dull pain at the front of the hip. At times, this area may be inflamed and is typically tender. The pain may worsen with activity.
Iliolumbar Syndrome
Iliac crest pain syndrome, also called iliolumbar syndrome, develops when the iliolumbar ligament tears. This may occur due to repeated bending or twisting motions and actions. It may also occur due to trauma, such as a fall or car crash.
The common symptoms of this condition include persistent bouts of severe lower back pain that can spread to the groin and hip. The pain may worsen when a person twists or bends.
Board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Garabekyan receives patients from Los Angeles, Century City, CA, and nearby areas for orthopedic surgery.
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:
Century City / Los Angeles: 310.595.1030
Serving patients in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Century City, West Hollywood, North Hollywood Encino, Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys, Burbank, Glendale and other neighboring cities in the greater Los Angeles, California area.
Also visit http://www.drgorthopedics.com/
