In the very early stages of hip impingement, symptoms may manifest themselves as stiffness in the thigh, hip, or groin, the inability to flex the hip beyond a certain point, pain in the groin area, or even lower back. If left untreated, hip impingement can cause some severe cartilage damage and osteoarthritis.

What is Hip Impingement Syndrome?

This is the mechanical or structural disorder of the hip. This means that the femoral head of the bone is misshapen, which causes damage when it’s moved. Hip impingement occurs when someone is born with an abnormal femoral head and often causes stiffness and pain from the damage done to the cartilage in this joint.

How is this diagnosed?

When you schedule your appointment with Dr. Larson, he’ll be able to identify the certain indicators that point to hip impingement. Early diagnosis is important, as it minimizes the amount of damage done to the joint. Dr. Larson will begin by gathering some medical and familial history as well as a history of the symptoms you’ve been experiencing. If you’ve experienced any of the symptoms listed, it’s important to communicate this with Dr. Larson.

• Stiffness in the thigh, hip, or groin
• The inability to flex the hip beyond a right angle
• Pain in the groin area, particularly after the hip has been flexed (such as after running or jumping or even extended periods sitting down)
• Pain in the hip, groin, or lower back that can occur at rest as well as during activity

What are your treatment options?

There are several treatment options that may be recommended depending on the severity of the hip impingement. Some of these treatments may include:

• Resting the affected hip
• Modifying activities that cause pain in the affected hip area
• Following an exercise program as recommended by your doctor to strengthen muscles that support the hip
• Taking pain medication to regulate the pain and swelling

If the above treatments aren’t helping to minimize pain, Dr. Larson may recommend hip surgery. Because of the expertise that Dr. Larson and his team offer, you can expect a smooth recovery period as well as a return to activity gradually, with less pain.

Schedule Your Appointment

Dr. Larson is accepting new patients. If you’ve been experiencing any of the symptoms we’ve discussed, it’s time to get in to see Dr. Larson. Once he correctly diagnosis the pain you’re experiencing, he can help you find the right treatment plan for you and your lifestyle to get you on the path to recovery. Don’t settle for living in pain anymore. To schedule your appointment, please call us at 435-774-8512.