The exact origin of the sharp, radiating hip pain can either be local or referred from the low back. Doctors find this condition as a challenge to diagnose since the cause can range from a simple tendon strain or a dangerous femoral neck stress fracture that have the similar symptoms.
The large muscle groups originate in the hip and extend down to the knee. Once the thigh muscle endures a strain such as a harsh rip or bruise, the distribution of pain involves the joint and along the muscle. A good example is a torn hamstring which is a common injury during sports. By enrolling in a first aid class, you will learn how to properly manage muscular strains.
Once an individual has piriformis syndrome, it develops once the piriformis muscle located at the rear of the hip presses on the sciatic nerve. This can result to intense pain in the joint and along the path of the sciatic nerve at the rear part of the leg. In some cases, the hip pain can extend up to the calf and the foot. Always remember that the syndrome is uncommon and can be difficult to differentiate from other symptoms triggered by compression of the sciatic nerve at its origin in the spinal column.
The deterioration of the cartilage and bony changes that occurs once an individual has osteoarthritis is typically caused by the wear and tear on the aging joints. The weight bearing joints such as the hip are at high risk. In advanced cases, the deterioration can lead to debilitating pain in the joint and thigh.
The inflammation of the trochanteric bursa which is a fluid-filled cushion that minimizes friction between the movable structures in the joint can result to hip pain that radiates up to the thigh. Take note that any action that increases pressure on the bursa such as walking or lying on the affected hip will intensify the pain. The condition can affect anyone but women, elderly and middle-aged men face a higher risk for developing the condition.
Hip fractures typically occur in the upper quarter of the femur or thighbone where they meet the pelvis. This can result to severe pain over the joint radiating into the upper thigh. Fractures to the hip due to falls or osteoporosis can occur frequently among the elderly. Always remember that the consequences can be devastating for this age group where many do not fully recover from the injury.
The joint that is commonly affected by osteonecrosis is the hip. Once the blood supply to the ball of the joint is injured usually due to dislocation or fracture, the bones cell will eventually die. Hip pain can become incapacitating as the weakening of the bone progresses. In advanced stages, osteonecrosis would require hip replacement procedure.
An individual with transitory osteoporosis which mainly affects pregnant women after the sixth month as well as middle-aged men can cause an abrupt onset of pain that can radiate into the front of the thigh. Unlike with other forms of osteoporosis, the condition is reversible.