Chronic hip pain can make daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs and getting out a of a chair painful and challenging. It can also sideline an athlete from a favorite sport. Severe hip pain can even limit the ability to remain independent. As with any injury, getting a proper diagnosis to determine the cause of left hip pain is essential in order to form the right treatment plan. In most cases, the earlier treatment is sought the better, to help reduce the chances of complications or chronic pain.
Arthritis
According to the Arthritis Foundation, more than 100 forms of arthritis can cause pain and swelling in any area of the body, including the hip. Some forms are systemic and cause a variety of other symptoms besides pain. However, osteoarthritis, which is the most common form of arthritis, can cause pain in just one joint, such as the left hip. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, osteoarthritis of the left hip may start off as occasional stiffness and mild discomfort. Over time, as the cartilage continues to wear away and bone rubs on bone, the pain may get worse and be present constantly. Exercise, weight loss, medication and, in severe cases, surgery can all help to reduce left hip pain from osteoarthritis.
Bursitis
The joints in the body contain fluid-filled sacs called bursa that help to reduce friction as the body moves. If any of the bursa in the left hip become inflamed or injured, bursitis may occur and cause pain. Overuse of the hip area, poor posture and body mechanics, and underlying inflammatory conditions can all contribute to the development of bursitis, notes the Cleveland Clinic. Avoiding repetitive hip movements, exercise, medication and, in rare cases, surgery may all help to manage hip bursitis.
Iliotibial Band Syndrome
The iliotibial band is a tendon that attaches the pelvic and hip bones to the knee bone. Too much vigorous walking and running can cause this tendon to become inflamed, notes the Nicholas Institute of Sports Medicine and Athletic Trauma. Excessive activity can cause the hip muscles and this tendon to become tight and inflamed; the muscles or tendon can develop tears. Once this injury heals, using good training principles along with a daily stretching program will help to prevent this injury from recurring.
Hip Fracture
A hip fracture can cause a significant amount of pain in the left hip. If severe enough, it can lead to a loss of independence. Hip fractures can happen at any age due to a fall or a direct blow to the hip. However, they tend to be more common in the elderly and in those with osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition where the bones become frail and more likely to break. Seniors who may have less muscle strength and ability to maintain balance are at a higher risk for a fall and hip fracture. In cases of severe osteoporosis, hip fractures can occur just by banging the area or moving incorrectly, reports the National Institutes of Health. Getting regular bone density tests to help diagnose osteoporosis in the early stages, along with a healthy diet and regular exercise, can help reduce the risk of a hip fracture.
