Limited Range of Motion in The Hip Joint – Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

Limited Range of Motion in the Hip Joint – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment at Emirates Hospitals Group

Limited range of motion in the hip joint can make everyday activities such as walking, sitting, or bending difficult and painful. The hip is a ball-and-socket joint that allows for a wide range of movement, but when its motion is restricted, it can significantly affect a person’s quality of life. At Emirates Hospitals Group, our orthopedic specialists provide comprehensive diagnosis and advanced treatments to help restore hip function and improve mobility.

Causes of Limited Range of Motion in the Hip Joint

Several factors can lead to a restricted range of motion in the hip joint, including:

• Osteoarthritis: A degenerative condition where the cartilage in the hip joint breaks down, leading to stiffness, pain, and limited motion.
• Hip Labral Tears: Tears in the cartilage (labrum) that surrounds the hip joint, often caused by injury or wear and tear, can restrict movement and cause pain.
• Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa (fluid-filled sac) in the hip, often caused by repetitive movement or overuse, can lead to hip pain and limited motion.
• Hip Impingement (Femoroacetabular Impingement – FAI): A condition where the bones of the hip joint do not fit together properly, leading to friction and damage to the cartilage, limiting movement.
• Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons around the hip joint can cause stiffness and restrict mobility.
• Fractures: Broken bones in the hip area, particularly around the femoral head or pelvis, can lead to long-term restricted movement if not properly treated.
• Hip Dislocation: Dislocation of the hip joint can damage surrounding tissues and limit the range of motion.
• Muscle Imbalances or Tightness: Tight hip flexors or muscles surrounding the hip joint can limit motion and lead to pain during movement.
• Infections or Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions such as septic arthritis or gout can cause swelling, pain, and reduced range of motion in the hip joint.

Symptoms of Limited Range of Motion in the Hip Joint

Common symptoms associated with limited range of motion in the hip joint include:

• Difficulty bending, sitting, or standing for long periods.
• Pain or discomfort when moving the hip, particularly during activities like walking or climbing stairs.
• Stiffness in the hip joint, especially after periods of rest.
• A sensation of the hip “locking” or feeling “stuck” during movement.
• Swelling, tenderness, or warmth around the hip area.
• Reduced flexibility or mobility in the hip joint.

Diagnosis of Limited Range of Motion in the Hip Joint

To accurately diagnose the cause of limited hip motion, a healthcare professional will conduct a thorough evaluation. Diagnostic methods may include:

• Physical Examination: The doctor will assess your range of motion, strength, and any areas of tenderness or swelling in the hip.
• Medical History: A review of your past injuries, surgeries, or medical conditions that could be contributing to restricted motion.
• X-rays: To evaluate bone structure and check for signs of arthritis, fractures, or deformities in the hip joint.
• MRI or Ultrasound: These imaging techniques help assess soft tissues like tendons, ligaments, and cartilage, providing insight into issues such as tears or inflammation.
• Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure that allows the doctor to look inside the hip joint and diagnose cartilage damage, labral tears, or other issues.
• Blood Tests: To identify underlying conditions such as infection, inflammatory diseases, or autoimmune disorders that may affect the hip joint.

Treatment for Limited Range of Motion in the Hip Joint in Dubai

At Emirates Hospitals Group, our orthopedic specialists are committed to diagnosing the underlying cause of your limited hip motion and providing a personalized treatment plan to restore function, relieve pain, and improve your quality of life.

Treatment for limited range of motion in the hip joint depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Treatment options may include:

• Physical Therapy: A structured program of stretching and strengthening exercises to improve flexibility, mobility, and strength in the hip joint.
• Medications: Pain relievers such as NSAIDs to reduce pain and inflammation. Corticosteroid injections may also be used to treat severe inflammation in the hip.
• Heat and Cold Therapy: Ice packs to reduce swelling, and heat therapy to relax the muscles around the hip joint and improve flexibility.
• Rest and Activity Modification: Resting the hip and avoiding activities that exacerbate pain can promote healing and reduce stress on the joint.
• Hip Bracing: Braces or supports may help stabilize the hip joint and reduce strain during movement.
• Surgical Intervention: In cases of severe damage or degenerative conditions, surgery may be required. Options include hip arthroscopy to remove damaged tissue or repair the labrum, or hip replacement surgery in cases of advanced arthritis.
• Injections: Hyaluronic acid injections can help lubricate the joint, while platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections may promote healing of damaged tissues and reduce inflammation.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in low-impact exercises like swimming, and using proper ergonomics can help reduce strain on the hip joint.