Managing Hip Pain Through Physiotherapy
The hips are known as one of the more durable parts of our body. If exposed to normal wear and tear and even a fair share of repeated movements, the hips may productively serve a person for many years. However, this does not mean our hips are indestructible. Certain conditions such as trauma, fractures, and damage to the joints, muscles or other parts of the hip may occur that will lead to pain, discomfort, swelling, stiffness, and movement problems.
Treatment of hip pains would generally depend on the cause of the pain. There are so many possible causes of hippain that you may require the services of a doctor to come up with the proper treatment. Except for extreme cases wherein a surgical procedure may be called for, hip pains may be effectively managed by medications, behavioral modifications, lifestyle changes, and the very valuable physical therapy.
Physical therapy is a clinical health science that aims to help patients recover, improve, or maintain their physical abilities. It has made great strides in the medical field and has now been recognized as a major component in the management of numerous medical conditions. In addition, physical therapy has become essential in the recovery and rehabilitation after injuries or surgical procedures.
Initial Evaluation of Hip Pain
A patient who desires to undergo physical therapy for hip pain will first be evaluated by the therapist. This will allow for the proper diagnosis of the condition, learn about conditions that may put limitations, and come up with treatment program. Initial screening will include getting information about the problem, factors that have an effect on the condition, and learning about the patient’s medical history.
After getting the preliminary information, the therapist will then conduct a more extensive evaluation using the following tools or methods:
- Range of motion measurements
- Gait evaluation
- Strength measurements
- Other special tests
- Recommended Treatment or Therapy
Based on the evaluation conducted by the therapist and with consideration of the other information gathered in the preliminary stage, a treatment or therapy plan may be drawn. The patient may be taught different exercises which may be intended to improve strength and mobility of the hips. These exercises may have to be done on a daily basis. Later on, the patient may be asked to do advanced hip strengthening exercises.
In addition to the various exercises, the therapist may have to use other modalities for the management of pain, strengthening of the hips, improving range of motion, and the reduction of any swelling if present. These modalities may include hot and cold application, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, hydrotherapy, laser therapy, massage therapy, and other forms that may be find application to the existing problem.