There are many causes for pain in the legs and hips that can range from mild to severe and require surgery to alleviate the pain. However, most causes of leg and hip pain can be treated at home. Young children, the elderly and those with preexisting medical conditions should always see a doctor when experiencing pain.
Sciatica
The sciatic nerve starts at the spinal cord and travels down to both legs. Sciatica pain can feel like a tingling or burning sensation down the back, hips or legs. The pain can be so severe that it makes movement difficult or impossible for some people. Generally, sciatica goes away on its own with rest, icing the area and taking over-the-counter pain medications, according to MedlinePlus, a publication of the National Institutes of Health.
Herniated Disk
A herniated disk occurs when the inner layer of the disc pushes through the outer layer of the disk and into the spinal canal. Symptoms can include pain down the back, hips and legs, numbness in one leg or in arm, neck or shoulder. Other symptoms include pain in the lower back or in the legs when a person sits, coughs or sneezes. Treatments include rest, ice, heat, physical therapy and over-the-counter pain medications, according to MayoClinic.com. Herniated disks take about four to six weeks to heal.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, reports MayoClinic.com. Hands, knees, hips, the neck and the lower back are common places where the cartilage in the joints wear down, resulting in osteoarthritis. Symptoms can include pain during or after movement in the joints, a grinding sensation in the joints, stiffness and bone spurs. There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but there are treatments to relieve symptoms including over-the-counter pain medications, prescription medications, cortisone shots, physical therapy and braces. There are also surgical options such as joint replacement, realigning bones and fusing bones at the joint.
Sprains and Strains
There are differences between sprains and strains, even though they share many of the same symptoms. Sprains occur when the ligament is stretched too far or torn. Strains occur when the muscle or tendon is stretched or torn. Any ligament, tendon or muscle in the body can be strained or sprained, including the legs and hips. According to MayoClinic.com, the symptoms include swelling, pain and limited movement of either the joint or muscle. With sprains, a person may experience bruising. Strains can involve muscle spasms around the injured muscle. Treatments include rest, ice and over-the-counter pain medications. For severe injuries, where a person cannot bear any weight or move the injured body part, medical care is required.
