Author Archives: Tigran Garabekyan, M.D.

The hip area can suffer damage ranging from minor injuries requiring minor treatment to more serious injuries resulting in the muscles detaching from the bone. When the hip flexor muscles are strained, torn, pulled, or injured, it can result in hip flexor strain.

Various activities can lead to this condition with sharp pain being its primary symptom. Serious hip flexor injuries include third-degree sprains in which the bone breaks along with the muscle sprain. These injuries may require orthopedic surgery in some cases.

Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI), led by dedicated board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan, provides safe and proven treatments for the hip, knee and shoulder to patients in Los Angeles, Century City, CA, and surrounding communities across the horizon.

What are Hip Flexors?

The psoas muscle forms a part of the hip flexor muscles. The hip flexor muscles connect the top of the femur (the body’s largest bone) to the lower back, hips, and groin.

There are multiple hip flexor muscles that work simultaneously enabling a person to move. These muscles include:

• The iliacus and psoas are significant muscles, also known as iliopsoas.
• The rectus femoris which is a part of the quadriceps.

Injury can result from overuse and overstretching of these tendons and muscles, and such injuries are characterized by pain and reduced mobility.

Hip Flexor Strain Symptoms

The following symptoms are associated with hip flexor strain:

• A sharp and sudden pain in the pelvis or hip after an injury to the area
• A sensation of clenching or cramping in the muscles of the upper leg region
• Tenderness and soreness in the upper leg
• Strength loss in the front of the groin in addition to a tugging sensation
• Hip or thigh muscle spasms
• Inability to perform movements such as jumping, kicking, or spinning
• A reduction in mobility and discomfort when moving, including limping
• Constant pain and discomfort in the upper leg region
• Bruising or inflammation around the thigh or hip area
• A feeling of stiffness or tightness after being stationary, such as after sleeping

Treatments

Exercises under the direction of a doctor may be all the treatment a patient needs for minor hip flexor injuries.

Other common treatments options for hip flexor strains are as follows:

• Allowing the muscles to rest to enable them to heal while discontinuing activities that could aggravate the condition.
• Wearing a compression wrap around the injured region.
• Application of an ice pack to the injured area.
• Application of a heat pack to the injured area.
• Taking a hot shower or bath
• OTC pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), and naproxen sodium (Aleve).

It is important to note that the patient should follow the doctor’s guidelines while using these medications and not use them for over 10 days. If the patient still feels pain after ten days, they should consult their doctor to evaluate alternative treatment options.

Surgery

More severe cases of hip flexor strain will prompt the doctor to order an x-ray, MRI, or CT scan to determine if the bone may be broken. In cases where the damage is significant, a doctor may refer the patient to a physical therapist or recommend orthopedic surgery to repair the muscle. But this level of damage is typically rare.

The patient should consult a doctor if the hip flexor strain causes a limp or if the symptoms do not subside after resting and treating at home for one week. Successful orthopedic surgeon Dr. Garabekyan receives patients from Los Angeles, Century City, CA, and other towns and cities in this region of SoCal for hip, knee, and shoulder 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:

Century City / Los Angeles: 310.574.0375

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/

Pelvic pain develops more commonly in women. Pelvic pain treatment seeks to reduce symptoms and enhance the quality of life. If the doctor can identify a specific cause, the treatment will be centered on that cause.

But in case a cause is not apparent, the treatment will be geared toward the management of pain and other symptoms. The optimal approach, for many women, involves a combination of various treatments. Orthopedic surgery may be required in a few cases.  

Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI), led by board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan, provides safe and proven treatments for the hip, knee and shoulder to patients in Los Angeles, Century City, CA, and surrounding communities.

Medications for Pelvic Pain

Pain relievers: Over the counter pain medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or acetaminophen may offer the patient some pelvic pain relief. At times, they may require prescription pain medication. However, pain medicines alone usually do not resolve chronic pain.  

Hormone treatments: Certain women experience pelvic pain on days that may coincide with a specific phase of their menstrual cycle and the hormonal fluctuations that control ovulation and menstruation. In such cases, birth control pills or other hormonal drugs may help in pelvic pain relief.

Antibiotics: In case the pain occurs due to an infection, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics to the patient.

Antidepressants: Some Tricyclic antidepressants such as nortriptyline (Pamelor), amitriptyline, and others have been shown to relieve pain along with antidepressant effects. They may help manage chronic pain even for women who are not experiencing depression.

Other Therapies for Pelvic Pain Management

Physical therapy: Massage, stretching exercises, and other relaxation techniques may help manage chronic pelvic pain. A physical therapist can offer the patient assistance with these treatments and enable them to develop strategies for pain management.

Neurostimulation (spinal cord stimulation): This procedure involves the implantation of a device that obstructs nerve pathways to prohibit the pain signals from reaching the brain and may be beneficial depending on the reason for the pelvic pain.

Trigger point injections: In case the doctor detects certain points which are painful to the patient, they may recommend having a numbing medication injected into those trigger points. This medication which is typically a long-acting local anesthetic can obstruct pain and relieve discomfort.

Psychotherapy: The pain could be related to sexual abuse, depression, a dysfunctional marriage, a personality disorder, or a family crisis. In such cases, consulting a psychologist or psychiatrist may be useful.

Surgery for Pelvic Pain

Laparoscopic surgery: In case the patient has endometriosis, doctors can eliminate adhesions or endometrial tissue via laparoscopic surgery. In this procedure, the surgeon will insert a thin viewing tool (laparoscope) using a tiny incision near the patient’s navel and insert instruments to excise endometrial tissue via one or more small incisions.

Hysterectomy: Rarely, the doctor may recommend the removal of the patient’s fallopian tubes (salpingectomy), uterus (hysterectomy), or ovaries (oophorectomy). This procedure poses vital medical consequences. Before recommending this procedure, the doctor will discuss the risks and advantages in detail with the patient.

Pain Rehabilitation Programs

The patient may need to try various treatment combinations before identifying one that is most suitable for them. They may consider joining a pain rehabilitation program, if appropriate.

Experienced orthopedic surgeon Dr. Garabekyan receives patients from Los Angeles, Century City, CA, and nearby areas for hip, knee, and shoulder 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:

Century City / Los Angeles: 310.574.0375

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/

Yelp is the world’s most recognized and reliable consumer rating and review website. Yelp has ranked Dr. Tigran Garabekyan of the Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI) as one of the top five orthopedic surgeons in Los Angeles, CA.

The caring Dr. Garabekyan provides cutting edge orthopedic surgery and other treatments to patients in Los Angeles, Century City, CA, and other towns and cities in this part of The Golden State.

Excerpts from Recent Patient Reviews for Dr. Garabekyan on Yelp

Dr. Garabekyan has received 57 reviews on Yelp, out of which 54 reviewers have given 5 stars to him for his outstanding services.

Lara G.

Manhattan, NY

5.0 star rating 8/15/2017

Dr. Garabekyan is one of the best doctors I have seen. He is incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and kind. Three years ago another orthopedist diagnosed me with bi-lateral hip dysplasia and offered me no remedies to ease my pain and discomfort nor outlined a plan for me. This happened with two other doctors and I felt frustrated.

The pain had recently gotten so bad that I went and saw Dr. Garabekyan. I brought my images and after reviewing them he explained in a very detailed manner what was going on with my hips, why I am having the pain I am having and identify exactly where the discomfit and pain was.

He gave me three options to explore now to minimize my pain and discomfort in the time between now and either a hip replacement surgery or PAO surgery. I am now finally on the right path to managing my pain and feeling like I have a doctor who understands and cares about what is going on.

Simon E.

Glendale, CA

5.0 star rating 8/17/2018

Late 2017 I was diagnosed with Avascular Necrosis (AVN) in my right hip and an arthroscopic surgery was needed. Finding Dr. Garabekyan was a blessing at such a depressing time where it was affecting every part of my life. He is not only an expert on everything hip related, but his approach with his patients is always calm, clear, and with great care. I went into the surgery with a peace of mind, largely due to the demeanor/expertise/personableness of Dr. Garabekyan.

He performed my hip arthroscopy in early January and it was done without a perineal post, enabling him to carry out simultaneous bilateral hip arthroscopy. This is an innovative method of performing the procedure that not a lot of surgeons use yet. This minimized my recovery time/complications I may have had. Eight months later, I played my first competitive basketball game, marking a huge milestone in my recovery, something unimaginable this time last year.

The relationship I have with Dr. Garabekyan did not end after the surgery. He has guided me every step of the way throughout the recovery process. He provided a well written packet catered specifically to me. It included screenshots of the arthroscopic images (with thorough explanations of each image), along with exercises and do’s/don’ts for each week of recovery. He has been a text message away for any questions I have had and has been very supportive and genuinely interested in the well being of my hip.

Rita T.

Santa Monica, CA

5.0 star rating 8/9/2018

Dr. Garabekyan is truly an amazing doctor. He knows how to make you feel welcome in his office, how to keep you calm as you are about to go through a procedure – big or small. He even followed up with me over email and it was greatly appreciated as it showed me cared. He’s a great knee doctor and I’m glad I came to him for my knee pain.

Stephanee M.

Ontario, CA

5.0 star rating 5/1/2018

Dr. Garabekyan is the best Orthopedic Surgeon in Southern California. I won’t repeat what everyone says here on his interest in his patients as well as the BEST bedside manner I have ever had the privilege of encountering.

If you get referred to Dr. Garabekyan you will be beyond pleased. Just follow what he asks and give it your all, and he will give you 110% in return. I was ashamed to have to have bi lateral hip surgeries at first, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Dr. Garabekyan honestly gave me my quality of life back, and I will be forever thankful.

Elliot F.

Los Angeles, CA

5.0 star rating 3/22/2018

This Doctor is a stud. Smart guy who makes you feel comfortable and know you are in good hands. My first time going to an orthopedic Surgeon for a hip impingement and was impressed with how smoothly everything went.

I still have many follow up visits and possibly surgery in my near future so will update my review then.

Makan M.

Calabasas Highlands, CA

5.0 star rating 7/25/2018

Dr. G is amazing!  He took time to listen to my concerns and was always available to answer questions before and after my procedure.  Hands down one of the best doctors I’ve ever known!

Ron P.

Stevenson Ranch, CA

5.0 star rating 1/14/2018

I cannot say enough good things about Dr. Garabekyan. Beyond his expertise in orthopedics is a bedside manner and personality second to none. I’ve had to see more surgeons and specialists in my life than most I’d hazard to guess and Dr. G is definitely a new generation of approachable and informative doctors, besides being one heck of a surgeon.

I’ve undergone two hip surgeries with Dr. G, first referred to him by another orthopedic surgeon because of his reputation as a preservationist. He really does focus on everything that can be done to save or extend the life of your natural hip before jumping straight to replacement.

I am very happy with the results of my hip replacement. Everything went as planned and my recovery has been going quite well. Dr. Garabekyan has given me my mobility back and the opportunity to get more active and back into better shape.

Z L.

DeLand, FL

5.0 star rating 7/16/2018

Dr Garabekyan really saved me. I had horrible hip pain and after prp he did surgery on it. Thank God I had such a skilled surgeon. He managed to save my hip and give me a new lease on life.

Anna W.

Playa Vista, CA

5.0 star rating 4/16/2018

Dr. Garabekyan, is in a league of his own! He is so kind, knowledgeable, patient, ALWAYS available, and his hip surgeries (in my experience) are executed fantastically.

I went to the surgery center in the valley. Dr. Garabekyan’s surgery team was all so nice and professional. Dr. G, met with my husband and I before the surgery and explained the procedure again. He was so nice and thorough, answering any last minute questions we had. Before I knew it the surgery was over and I was on my way home.

Dr. Garabekyan is a life saver! Seriously! I’m still young and I love to be active. Now my hip won’t hold me back, and I’ll be able to do all of the sports and activities I want to do, again.

I’m so happy with my results and I hope that if anyone reads this, and is considering any kind of surgery for their hip, that they go to Dr. Garabekyan. He cares so much, does such great work, that produces (in my case) great results! Thanks Dr. G.

Jenna S.

Pasadena, CA

5.0 star rating 3/10/2018

I cannot say enough good things about Dr. Garabekyan. The world is lucky to have this guy as a surgeon.

Recommending Dr. Garabekyan is not even a question–trust me, at this point, my entire extended family, all of my co-workers, and my friends know his name and the level of individualized care he’s shown through this gift he’s given me.

I cried when I first read–on the PAO page of the SoCal Hip Institute website–“We look forward to helping you get your life back.” And now it’s happening. Right now, to me, as I’m recovering and finding JOY in how my body is working, because of him. This is a life-changing gift that he’s giving.

Inessa S.

Las Vegas, NV

5.0 star rating 5/4/2018

Dr Garabekyan performed excellent hip replacement surgery at Cedars Sinai hospital 05/01/2018. My mom for over 3 years was choosing the “right” Dr and only when she met/consulted Dr Garabekyan she was comfortable and confident to pursue with surgery.

Doctor visited my mom every single day at the hospital and insured she is healing and being taken care off. He is very knowledgeable, professional and pays very close attention to details. I highly recommend Dr Garabekyan.

Mike P.

Burbank, CA

5.0 star rating 11/1/2017

I am a 48 year old male police sergeant whose body has been through sports injuries, weightlifting injuries, work incidents, and the beating that comes with raising three athletes.  With that being said, in June of this year I tore my rotator cuff and damaged the labrum of my right shoulder while helping carry a piece of furniture. My health insurance company gave me the option of two different surgeons to choose from. I decided to meet with both of them to help me make an educated choice on which doctor to go with.  

Of course I immediately checked Yelp and found some excellent reviews for Dr. Garabekyan.  I made an appointment which was easy and was scheduled within two weeks. Kerry and the other staff was very helpful in providing me a list of the things I would need to bring from my primary care physician, which I did.

The surgery was a success. Dr. Garabekyan said it looked as though an explosion had occurred in my shoulder. I had a severe full length tear in one of the tendons in my rotator cuff as well as some fraying to the other and some damage to the labrum.  As I expected, he said much of the damage appeared to be from previous shoulder injuries which made sense due my lifestyle.

All of the damage was repaired through three half inch arthroscopic cuts in my shoulder which were painless and quick healing.

Dedicated orthopedic surgeon Dr. Garabekyan receives patients from Los Angeles, Century City, CA, and nearby areas for hip and other procedures.

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: 310.574.0375

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/