Participation in athletics can take a toll on your body -- including your hips. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, athletes who participate in track, running, soccer and dance are most prone to hip injuries. However, any type of athlete is at risk for developing hip pain. Hip pain can be the result of trauma or overuse. If you suspect you have sustained a hip injury as the result of athletics, contact your physician.
Hip Fractures
Hip fractures can be full-out complete fractures of the hip bone. A hip fracture can also occur as the result of overuse. Overuse hip fractures are frequently referred to as stress fractures. A stress fracture does not normally cause the hip bone to crack completely through. A hip fracture often occurs as the result of a direct blow to the hip. Pain will be sudden and severe. A hip stress fracture occurs over time and is the result of repetitive stress placed on your hips during activities such as running. The pain of a hip stress fracture normally subsides with rest and increases as you participate in athletics. Treatment for fractures largely depends on the severity of the fracture, but can include the use of crutches until the fracture heals, or surgery to repair the fracture.
Hip Contusion
A hip contusion occurs as the result of a direct blow to your hip and is most commonly seen in contact sports. A contusion affects the soft tissue of your hip. You will likely feel pain upon participation in sports. Pain will also occur if you or a physician presses on the affected hip joint. Rest, ice, stretching and anti-inflammatory medications are beneficial in treating contusions of the hip. Your doctor may also recommend physical therapy in order to restore function and range of motion to your hip.
Iliotibial Band Syndrome
Iliotibial band syndrome is an overuse injury that causes pain on the outside of the hip, the thigh and the knee. The pain tends to run from your hip down the outside of the leg to your knee. This condition is common in runners. A physical examination is used to help determine iliotibial band syndrome. Your doctor may also conduct imaging studies in order to rule out any other conditions. Iliotibial band syndrome is treated with activity modification, stretching, ice, massage, anti-inflammatory medications, wearing appropriate footwear and possibly, physical therapy.
Arthritis
Arthritis can also cause hip pain in athletes. Arthritis is most common in athletes who are older or who have sustained prior hip injuries. Arthritis causes progressive pain and stiffness in your hip. This can inhibit your ability to participate in sports. Pain will occur when rotating your hip in all directions. Pain also may occur to the touch. Your doctor will complete a medical history, physical examination and x-rays in order to diagnose arthritis. Hip arthritis is treated with anti-inflammatory medications, activity modification, exercises, physical therapy, assistive walking devices or, as a last resort, total hip replacement.
