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Anterior hip pain
1Department of Orthopaedics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle 98195-4060, USA.
American Family Physician
|October 28, 1999
Summary
Anterior hip pain has diverse causes, from adolescent avulsion fractures to adult muscle strains and osteoarthritis. Prompt diagnosis and targeted treatment, including physical therapy or surgery, are crucial for effective management and pain relief.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Physical Therapy
Background:
- Anterior hip pain presents a diagnostic challenge due to its multifactorial nature.
- Differential diagnosis is essential for appropriate patient management.
Observation:
- Adolescents may experience apophyseal avulsion or slipped capital femoral epiphysis.
- Adults commonly present with muscle/tendon strains, osteoarthritis, or inflammatory arthritis.
- Specific athletic injuries include stress fractures, osteitis pubis, labral tears, and nerve entrapments.
Findings:
- Muscle strains typically resolve with conservative care.
- Osteoarthritis is common in older adults; inflammatory causes should be considered in younger individuals.
- Femoral neck stress fractures require urgent evaluation to prevent displacement.
- Osteitis pubis management involves education and physical therapy for pelvic mechanics.
- Athletic hip pain may necessitate surgical intervention for return to sport.
Implications:
- Accurate diagnosis guides treatment, ranging from conservative management to surgical repair.
- Addressing underlying causes like pelvic instability or stress injuries is key.
- Timely intervention can prevent long-term complications and facilitate return to athletic activities.