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Hip Pain & Disorders

Back Clinic Hip Pain & Disorders Team. These types of disorders are common complaints that can be caused by a variety of problems. The precise location of your hip pain can give more information about the underlying cause. The hip joint on its own tends to result in pain on the inside of your hip or groin area. Pain on the outside, upper thigh, or outer buttock is usually caused by ailments/problems with the muscles, ligaments, tendons, and soft tissues surrounding the hip joint. Hip pain can also be caused by diseases and conditions in other areas of your body, i.e. the lower back. The first thing is to identify where the pain is coming from.

The most important distinguishing factor is to find out if the hip is the cause of the pain. When hip pain comes from muscles, tendons, or ligament injuries, it typically comes from overuse or Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI). This comes from overusing the hip muscles in the body i.e. iliopsoas tendinitis. This can come from tendon and ligament irritations, which typically are involved in snapping hip syndrome. It can come from inside the joint that is more characteristic of hip osteoarthritis. Each of these types of pain presents itself in slightly different ways, which is then the most important part in diagnosing what the cause is.


Relieve Hip Bursitis Pain with Effective Treatment Options

Relieve Hip Bursitis Pain with Effective Treatment Options

Individuals with hip bursitis often experience discomfort during physical activity, walking, and pain when lying on the affected side. What treatment options are available to control and manage the condition?

Relieve Hip Bursitis Pain with Effective Treatment Options

Hip Bursitis

Hip bursitis, also known as trochanteric bursitis, is a common condition that causes pain and discomfort in the hip and upper thigh along the outside of the hip joint. It occurs when one of the hip’s bursae, or fluid-filled sacs cushion joints, becomes inflamed. Treatment for hip bursitis is to control the inflammation caused by this condition.

Causes

Hip bursitis can be caused by injury or overuse of the hip, such as repetitive activities, twisting, or rapid joint movement. It can also be caused by a direct blow or fall to the side of the hip.

Symptoms

  • Pain from hip bursitis can be sharp at first and may feel dull and achy later.
  • It may be worse when standing up after sitting, moving, or using the hip.
  • Individuals may also notice pain when lying on the affected side or sitting for a long time.

Rest

This means a period of not participating in physical, exercise, and sports activities that aggravate symptoms. Any activity that causes hip pain should be avoided as this only contributes to inflammation of the bursa. (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2022) Modifying how particular activities are performed can help alleviate pressure on the inflamed bursa. Working with a physical therapist can also be recommended. They are experts in movement and alignment, and if certain muscles are overused compared to others, this can lead to unhealthy movement patterns, causing bursa irritation.

Anti-Inflammatory Medications

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Motrin, Aleve, Naprosyn, etc., will help control inflammation (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2022). Anti-inflammatory medications can be extremely effective but should be taken cautiously. The instructions on the label need to be followed unless directed otherwise by a healthcare provider. Be aware of side effects and inform the healthcare provider if side effects present.

Cold Therapy

Applying ice to the hip area often helps alleviate the symptoms (National Library of Medicine, 2022). Ice can control inflammation by decreasing blood circulation to the area, especially after physical activity and exercise.

Aspiration

A needle is placed into the bursa to drain the fluid for those with a significant amount of fluid collected within the bursa. (National Library of Medicine, 2022) This is rarely needed in cases of hip bursitis, but when it is done, it can be combined with a cortisone injection.

Cortisone Injections

A cortisone injection may also be given into the bursa to alleviate pain. (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2022) The cortisone injection is helpful because it can be a diagnostic and therapeutic tool. In cases where hip bursitis may be one of several diagnoses being considered, cortisone can be given to see if it helps alleviate symptoms. Cortisone is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication that can be administered directly to the problem area. These injections are well-tolerated, but there can be possible side effects. Once the initial symptoms are under control, physical therapy strengthening and stretching exercises may be recommended.

Stretching

Most find relief by stretching the muscles and tendons over the outside of the hip, specifically the iliotibial band. The goal is for a better-conditioned muscle and tendon to glide more easily and not cause inflammation. Proper stretching techniques and posture are important in re-injury prevention.

Physical Therapy

Working with a physical therapist is an effective adjunct treatment for bursitis (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2022). Physical therapists correct muscle imbalances through stretching and exercise and improve alignment to prevent bursa irritation from reoccurring.

Surgery

Most patients get better with conservative treatment within about six weeks. Surgical treatment for hip bursitis is rarely needed (UCSF Health, 2024). Those who do not rest from their activities until the inflammation subsides often have a return of bursitis symptoms, and those who return too aggressively to activities and do not gradually build up also find that their symptoms return. In cases where surgery is needed, the healthcare provider may recommend an arthroscopic bursectomy. (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2022) The surgery is an outpatient minimally invasive procedure in which the bursa is removed through a small incision. After a short healing period, the individual can return to normal activity. Crutches may be used for a few days. Common complications are anesthetic-related complications and infection.

Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic

As with any treatment program, always talk with your healthcare provider before initiating specific treatments. Fortunately, treatment of hip bursitis is generally accomplished with conservative therapies. Efforts to limit pressure directly on the bursa, alleviate inflammation, and restore normal movement to the hip joint will typically resolve symptoms. At Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic, we focus on what works for you to relieve pain and restore function. Regarding musculoskeletal pain, specialists like chiropractors, acupuncturists, and massage therapists can help mitigate the pain through spinal adjustments that help the body realign itself. They can also work with other associated medical professionals to integrate into a treatment plan to improve the body’s flexibility and mobility, resolve musculoskeletal issues, and prevent future pain symptoms from reoccurring.


The Chiropractic Approach for Pain Relief


References

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2022). Hip bursitis. orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/hip-bursitis

National Library of Medicine. (2022). Bursitis: Learn More – How can bursitis be treated? InformedHealth.org [Internet]. Cologne, Germany: Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG). www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK525763/

UCSF Health. (2024). Trochanteric bursitis treatments. www.ucsfhealth.org/conditions/trochanteric-bursitis

Treating Hip Tendonitis: Restoring Mobility and Reducing Pain

Treating Hip Tendonitis: Restoring Mobility and Reducing Pain

Can understanding the causes and symptoms of potential hip tendonitis help healthcare providers diagnose and treat the condition for individuals experiencing pain in the front of the hip with restricted hip flexibility that worsens during movement?

Treating Hip Tendonitis: Restoring Mobility and Reducing Pain

Hip Tendonitis

Hip tendonitis is inflammation of the iliopsoas tendon. It is most commonly caused by overuse of the hip flexors without adequate rest for recovery. The condition can occur when the hip muscles overpower the tendons attached to the hip bone, causing inflammation and irritation. This can lead to pain, tenderness, and mild swelling near the hip joint. Hip tendonitis can be diagnosed with a physical examination, and treatment can include:

  • Rest
  • Ice
  • NSAIDs
  • Stretching
  • Physical therapy
  • Chronic cases may require a cortisone injection into the iliopsoas tendon to decrease inflammation.
  • Surgical release of the iliopsoas tendon may be recommended to decrease tightness and pain.

There is a high prognosis for a full recovery.

Tendonitis

Inflammation in a muscle’s tendon leads to pain and tenderness that worsens the more the muscle is used. An overuse injury means the tendon becomes repeatedly stressed through repetitive muscle contractions, causing muscle and tendon fibers to micro-tear. If not enough rest is allowed for the micro-tears to heal, a chronic cycle of pain and inflammation develops within the affected tendon. Other tendons that are prone to developing the condition include:

  • The tendon of the wrist extensors/tennis elbow.
  • The tendon of the wrist flexors/golfer’s elbow.
  • The Achilles’ tendon/Achilles tendonitis.
  • The patellar tendon/jumper’s knee.
  • The tendons of the thumb/De Quervain’s tenosynovitis.

Bursitis

  • Bursae are small fluid-filled sacs that help cushion and decrease friction around joints.
  • Because the iliopsoas tendon overlays bursae, inflammation of the tendon can also cause bursitis or inflammation of the bursae surrounding the tendon.
  • Tendonitis and bursitis can and often occur together due to overlapping symptoms.

Causes

The iliopsoas originates in the pelvis and vertebrae of the lower spine and attaches to the top of the femur or thigh bone. It allows the hip joint movement that brings the leg closer to the front of the body, like lifting the leg to step up or jump. It also helps keep the torso stable when standing with one or both feet on the ground and rising from a lying position. Hip tendonitis most often results from physical activities that require repeated leg lifting when stepping, running, kicking, or jumping. This can include:

  • Running
  • Dancing
  • Gymnastics
  • Martial arts
  • Cycling
  • Playing soccer

Iliopsoas tendonitis can also occur after hip arthroscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure to repair structures inside the hip joint because of altered joint movement and muscle activation patterns after surgery. (Adib F. et al., 2018)

Symptoms

The primary symptoms of hip tendonitis include a soreness or deep ache in the front of the hip that worsens after physical activity and limits the range of motion because of the pain. Other symptoms include:

  • Tenderness to touch in the front of the hip.
  • The pain can feel like a dull ache.
  • Stiffness may also be present.
  • Hip flexor tightness.
  • Altered posture, with the pelvis rotated forward and an exaggerated curve in the lower back.
  • Lower back pain.
  • Discomfort after prolonged sitting.
  • Altered walking pattern characterized by shortened steps.

Diagnosis

  • Hip tendonitis is diagnosed through a physical examination and medical history reviews of individual symptoms.
  • Individuals may also have an X-ray of their hip performed to examine the joint alignment and determine if a fracture or arthritis is present.

Treatment

  • Initial treatment involves rest from physical activities, applying ice, and gentle stretching.
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs/NSAIDs can ease pain and swelling, decrease inflammation, and reduce muscle spasms.
  • If chronic pain persists, individuals may receive a cortisone injection into their iliopsoas tendon. (Zhu Z. et al., 2020)
  • A personalized physical therapy program focusing on hip flexor stretching and strengthening, as well as strengthening the glutes and core, will help expedite an optimal recovery.

Surgery

For cases that do not improve after three months of treatment, surgery to lengthen the iliopsoas tendon, a procedure known as a tenotomy, may be performed. It involves making a small cut into a portion of the tendon, allowing the tendon to increase in length while decreasing tension as it heals back together. A tenotomy temporarily reduces the strength of the iliopsoas; however, this weakness usually resolves within three to six months after surgery. (Anderson C. N. 2016)

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care can be an effective treatment because it can help restore proper alignment and motion in the hip, reduce inflammation, and improve muscle and joint function. Treatments may include:

  • Spinal adjustments to realign the spine and other joints, reducing pressure on nerves and inflammation.
  • Non-surgical decompression
  • Manual therapy – massage, trigger point therapy, or spinal manipulation.
  • Acupuncture
  • Graston technique
  • Rehabilitative exercises like stretching, strengthening, and range of motion exercises.

Tendonitis generally has an excellent prognosis for full recovery as long as thorough rest from activities is taken to allow the inflamed tendon to heal. The postsurgical prognosis is positive for chronic and severe cases of iliopsoas tendonitis that require surgery.

Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to develop a customized treatment program through an integrated approach to treating injuries and chronic pain syndromes, improving flexibility, mobility, and agility to relieve pain and help individuals return to normal activities. If other treatments are needed, Dr. Jimenez has teamed up with top surgeons, clinical specialists, medical researchers, and rehabilitation providers to provide the most effective treatments.


Inflammation and Integrative Medicine


References

Adib, F., Johnson, A. J., Hennrikus, W. L., Nasreddine, A., Kocher, M., & Yen, Y. M. (2018). Iliopsoas tendonitis after hip arthroscopy: prevalence, risk factors and treatment algorithm. Journal of hip preservation surgery, 5(4), 362–369. doi.org/10.1093/jhps/hny049

Zhu, Z., Zhang, J., Sheng, J., Zhang, C., & Xie, Z. (2020). Low Back Pain Caused by Iliopsoas Tendinopathy Treated with Ultrasound-Guided Local Injection of Anesthetic and Steroid: A Retrospective Study. Journal of pain research, 13, 3023–3029. doi.org/10.2147/JPR.S281880

Anderson C. N. (2016). Iliopsoas: Pathology, Diagnosis, and Treatment. Clinics in sports medicine, 35(3), 419–433. doi.org/10.1016/j.csm.2016.02.009

Relieving Adductor Muscle Strain with Incorporating MET Therapy

Relieving Adductor Muscle Strain with Incorporating MET Therapy

Can athletic individuals incorporate MET (muscle energy techniques) therapy to reduce the pain-like effects of adductor strain?

Introduction

The body’s lower extremities have an important role as they provide stability and mobility to the individual. Many athletes utilize their lower extremities by adding much power to exert the energy to win matches or competitions. The various muscles, soft tissues, ligaments, and joints help support the body’s skeletal structure and can succumb to injuries from repetitive motions or environmental factors. One of the muscles that can be affected by constant repetitive motions and environmental factors is the adductor muscles, which can cause many athletes to be in continuous pain and affect their performance during competitions. Luckily, there is a technique that many treatments offer to reduce muscle strain in the adductors and provide relief to the lower extremities. Today’s article looks at how adductor strain can affect many individuals, how MET therapy can help with an adductor strain, and its positive effect on athletic individuals. We discuss with certified medical providers who consolidate our patients’ information to assess the pain-like effects of an adductor strain in the lower extremities. We also inform and guide patients on how MET therapy can help stretch and strengthen tight adductor muscles to reduce strain and provide relief. We also encourage our patients to ask their associated medical providers many intricate and important questions about incorporating MET and other non-surgical therapies into their personalized treatment plan for a healthier lifestyle. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., includes this information as an academic service. Disclaimer.

 

How Does Adductor Strain Affect Individuals?

Do you feel tightness along your thighs and legs after a long day at work? Do you experience instability when walking from one location to another? Or do you feel pain when stretching your thighs that causes temporary relief? Many individuals experiencing pain in their lower extremities will often think it is hip pain, but their adductor muscles are in pain. The adductor muscles consist of three muscles that provide torque to the lower extremities by allowing them to move inward when a person is walking and help keep the trunk muscles steady. So, when many athletes begin to make constant repetitive motions while performing, it can cause issues for the adductors. As a common injury to many athletes, adductor strain can put exaggerated stress on the actual tendon, leading to biomechanical abnormalities affecting the musculoskeletal system. (Kiel & Kaiser, 2024a) Also, when athletes start to use constant repetitive motions during an increased volume or intensity of the training workload, it can cause stress factors in the lower extremities. (Kiel & Kaiser, 2024b) This, in turn, can have many individuals feel like they are experiencing hip and groin pain when it is, in fact, stress fractures in the adductor muscles causing myofascial pain. 

 

 

So, for athletic individuals dealing with adductor strain, primary doctors need to differentiate between adductor strain and regular muscle strain in the lower extremities, as the pain symptoms sometimes have overlapping risk profiles with acute onset pain symptoms associated with distinct injury mechanisms. (McHugh et al., 2023) This is because when athletes overuse their adductor muscles, it causes pain, as many injuries within the adductors are associated with the hips and groin region. (Koscso et al., 2022) However, there are ways for athletes to find the relief they seek to reduce adductor strain and return to their routine. 

 


Movement Medicine- Video


How MET Therapy Helps With Adductor Strain

For athletes and individuals engaged in physical activity, MET therapy can be a valuable part of the recovery process for adductor strain. MET (muscle energy technique) therapy, a form of osteopathic manipulative medicine, is used by pain specialists such as chiropractors, massage therapists, and sports physicians to alleviate pain symptoms in the musculoskeletal system. By using gentle, controlled muscle contractions, these specialists can improve musculoskeletal function by mobilizing joints, stretching tight muscles and fascia, and improving circulation and lymphatic flow. (Waxenbaum et al., 2024) Many pain specialists, including chiropractors and massage therapists, incorporate MET therapy into their practices due to its effectiveness in addressing muscular imbalances and alignment issues that contribute to pain and limited mobility in the lower extremities. 

 

The Positive Effect Of MET Therapy

One of the positive effects of MET therapy for adductor strain is that when athletes and individuals start to utilize it as part of their recovery, their pain is reduced, and muscle mobility is increased since there are changes in the viscoelastic properties in the soft tissue. (Thomas et al., 2019) For the adductor muscles, MET therapy helps with:

  • Increasing muscle length & flexibility
  • Reduce muscle tension
  • Improving blood flow and promoting healing
  • Enhance joint function

MET therapy, when incorporated for pain relief for adductor strain, can put many individuals at ease as it actively focuses on muscle relaxation, lengthening, and strengthening the affected muscles. MET therapy can be combined with other therapies in a person’s personalized treatment plan to enhance mobility, be mindful of what is causing pain and discomfort to their bodies, and live a healthier lifestyle. 

 


References

Kiel, J., & Kaiser, K. (2024a). Adductor Strain. In StatPearls. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29630218

Kiel, J., & Kaiser, K. (2024b). Stress Reaction and Fractures. In StatPearls. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29939612

Koscso, J. M., McElheny, K., Carr, J. B., 2nd, & Hippensteel, K. J. (2022). Lower Extremity Muscle Injuries in the Overhead Athlete. Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med, 15(6), 500-512. doi.org/10.1007/s12178-022-09786-z

McHugh, M. P., Nicholas, S. J., & Tyler, T. F. (2023). Adductor Strains in Athletes. Int J Sports Phys Ther, 18(2), 288-292. doi.org/10.26603/001c.72626

Thomas, E., Cavallaro, A. R., Mani, D., Bianco, A., & Palma, A. (2019). The efficacy of muscle energy techniques in symptomatic and asymptomatic subjects: a systematic review. Chiropr Man Therap, 27, 35. doi.org/10.1186/s12998-019-0258-7

Waxenbaum, J. A., Woo, M. J., & Lu, M. (2024). Physiology, Muscle Energy. In StatPearls. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32644455

 

Disclaimer

Pudendal Neuropathy: Unraveling Chronic Pelvic Pain

Pudendal Neuropathy: Unraveling Chronic Pelvic Pain

For individuals experiencing pelvic pain, it could be a disorder of the pudendal nerve known as pudendal neuropathy or neuralgia that leads to chronic pain. The condition can be caused by pudendal nerve entrapment, where the nerve becomes compressed or damaged. Can knowing the symptoms help healthcare providers correctly diagnose the condition and develop an effective treatment plan?

Pudendal Neuropathy: Unraveling Chronic Pelvic Pain

Pudendal Neuropathy

The pudendal nerve is the main nerve that serves the perineum, which is the area between the anus and the genitalia – the scrotum in men and the vulva in women. The pudendal nerve runs through the gluteus muscles/buttocks and into the perineum. It carries sensory information from the external genitalia and the skin around the anus and perineum and transmits motor/movement signals to various pelvic muscles. (Origoni, M. et al., 2014) Pudendal neuralgia, also referred to as pudendal neuropathy, is a disorder of the pudendal nerve that can lead to chronic pelvic pain.

Causes

Chronic pelvic pain from pudendal neuropathy can be caused by any of the following (Kaur J. et al., 2024)

  • Excessive sitting on hard surfaces, chairs, bicycle seats, etc. Bicyclists tend to develop pudendal nerve entrapment.
  • Trauma to the buttocks or pelvis.
  • Childbirth.
  • Diabetic neuropathy.
  • Bony formations that push against the pudendal nerve.
  • Thickening of ligaments around the pudendal nerve.

Symptoms

Pudendal nerve pain can be described as stabbing, cramping, burning, numbness, or pins and needles and can present (Kaur J. et al., 2024)

  • In the perineum.
  • In the anal region.
  • In men, pain in the scrotum or penis.
  • In women, pain in the labia or vulva.
  • During intercourse.
  • When urinating.
  • During a bowel movement.
  • When sitting and goes away after standing up.

Because the symptoms are often hard to distinguish, pudendal neuropathy can often be hard to differentiate from other types of chronic pelvic pain.

Cyclist’s Syndrome

Prolonged sitting on a bicycle seat can cause pelvic nerve compression, which can lead to chronic pelvic pain. The frequency of pudendal neuropathy (chronic pelvic pain caused by entrapment or compression of the pudendal nerve) is often referred to as Cyclist’s Syndrome. Sitting on certain bicycle seats for long periods places significant pressure on the pudendal nerve. The pressure can cause swelling around the nerve, which causes pain and, over time, can lead to nerve trauma. Nerve compression and swelling can cause pain described as burning, stinging, or pins and needles. (Durante, J. A., and Macintyre, I. G. 2010) For individuals with pudendal neuropathy caused by bicycling, symptoms can appear after prolonged biking and sometimes months or years later.

Cyclist’s Syndrome Prevention

A review of studies provided the following recommendations for preventing Cyclist’s Syndrome (Chiaramonte, R., Pavone, P., Vecchio, M. 2021)

Rest

  • Take breaks at least 20–30 seconds after each 20 minutes of riding.
  • While riding, change positions frequently.
  • Stand up to pedal periodically.
  • Take time off between riding sessions and races to rest and relax the pelvic nerves. 3–10 day breaks can help in recovery. (Durante, J. A., and Macintyre, I. G. 2010)
  • If pelvic pain symptoms are barely starting to develop, rest and see a healthcare provider or specialist for an examination.

Seat

  • Use a soft, wide seat with a short nose.
  • Have the seat level or tilted slightly forward.
  • Seats with cutout holes place more pressure on the perineum.
  • If numbness or pain is present, try a seat without holes.

Bike Fitting

  • Adjust the seat height so the knee is slightly bent at the bottom of the pedal stroke.
  • The body’s weight should rest on the sitting bones/ischial tuberosities.
  • Keeping the handlebar height below the seat can reduce pressure.
  • The Triathlon bike’s extreme-forward position should be avoided.
  • A more upright posture is better.
  • Mountain bikes have been associated with an increased risk of erectile dysfunction than road bikes.

Shorts

  • Wear padded bike shorts.

Treatments

A healthcare provider may use a combination of treatments.

  • The neuropathy can be treated with rest if the cause is excessive sitting or cycling.
  • Pelvic floor physical therapy can help relax and lengthen the muscles.
  • Physical rehabilitation programs, including stretches and targeted exercises, can release nerve entrapment.
  • Chiropractic adjustments can realign the spine and pelvis.
  • The active release technique/ART involves applying pressure to muscles in the area while stretching and tensing. (Chiaramonte, R., Pavone, P., Vecchio, M. 2021)
  • Nerve blocks may help relieve pain caused by nerve entrapment. (Kaur J. et al., 2024)
  • Certain muscle relaxers, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed, sometimes in combination.
  • Nerve decompression surgery may be recommended if all conservative therapies have been exhausted. (Durante, J. A., and Macintyre, I. G. 2010)

Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic care plans and clinical services are specialized and focused on injuries and the complete recovery process. Our areas of practice include Wellness and nutrition, Chronic Pain, Personal Injury, Auto Accident Care, Work Injuries, Back Injury, Low Back Pain, Neck Pain, Migraine Headaches, Sports Injuries, severe sciatica, Scoliosis, Complex Herniated Discs, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Pain, Complex Injuries, Stress Management, and Functional Medicine Treatments. If the individual requires other treatment, they will be referred to a clinic or physician best suited for their condition, as Dr. Jimenez has teamed with the top surgeons, clinical specialists, medical researchers, therapists, trainers, and premiere rehabilitation providers.


Pregnancy and Sciatica


References

Origoni, M., Leone Roberti Maggiore, U., Salvatore, S., & Candiani, M. (2014). Neurobiological mechanisms of pelvic pain. BioMed research international, 2014, 903848. doi.org/10.1155/2014/903848

Kaur, J., Leslie, S. W., & Singh, P. (2024). Pudendal Nerve Entrapment Syndrome. In StatPearls. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31334992

Durante, J. A., & Macintyre, I. G. (2010). Pudendal nerve entrapment in an Ironman athlete: a case report. The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, 54(4), 276–281.

Chiaramonte, R., Pavone, P., & Vecchio, M. (2021). Diagnosis, Rehabilitation and Preventive Strategies for Pudendal Neuropathy in Cyclists, A Systematic Review. Journal of functional morphology and kinesiology, 6(2), 42. doi.org/10.3390/jfmk6020042

The Complete Guide to Dislocated Hip: Causes and Solutions

The Complete Guide to Dislocated Hip: Causes and Solutions

Can knowing treatment options for a dislocated hip help individuals expedite rehabilitation and recovery?

The Complete Guide to Dislocated Hip: Causes and Solutions

Dislocated Hip

A dislocated hip is an uncommon injury but can happen due to trauma or following hip replacement surgery. It usually occurs after severe trauma, including motor vehicle collisions, falls, and sometimes sports injuries. (Caylyne Arnold et al., 2017) A dislocated hip can also occur after hip replacement surgery. Other injuries like ligament tears, cartilage damage, and bone fractures can occur alongside the dislocation. Most hip dislocations are treated with a joint reduction procedure that resets the ball into the socket. It is usually done with sedation or general anesthesia. Rehabilitation takes time and could be a few months before full recovery. Physical therapy can help restore motion and strength in the hip.

What Is It?

If the hip is only partially dislocated, it’s called a hip subluxation. When this happens, the hip joint head only partially emerges from the socket. A dislocated hip is when the head or ball of the joint shifts or pops out of the socket. Because an artificial hip differs from a normal hip joint, the risk of dislocation increases after joint replacement. A study found that around 2% of individuals who undergo total hip replacement will experience hip dislocation within a year, with the cumulative risk increasing by approximately 1% over five years. (Jens Dargel et al., 2014) However, new technological prosthetics and surgical techniques are making this less common.

Hip Anatomy

  • The hip ball-and-socket joint is called the femoroacetabular joint.
  • The socket is called the acetabulum.
  • The ball is called the femoral head.

The bony anatomy and strong ligaments, muscles, and tendons help to create a stable joint. Significant force must be applied to the joint for a hip dislocation to occur. Some individuals report feeling a snapping sensation of the hip. This usually is not a hip dislocation but indicates a different disorder known as snapping hip syndrome. (Paul Walker et al., 2021)

Posterior Hip Dislocation

  • Around 90% of hip dislocations are posterior.
  • In this type, the ball is pushed backward from the socket.
  • Posterior dislocations can result in injuries or irritation to the sciatic nerve. (R Cornwall, T E Radomisli 2000)

Anterior Hip Dislocation

  • Anterior dislocations are less common.
  • In this type of injury, the ball is pushed out of the socket.

Hip Subluxation

  • A hip subluxation occurs when the hip joint ball starts to come out of the socket partially.
  • Also known as a partial dislocation, it can turn into a fully dislocated hip joint if not allowed to heal properly.

Symptoms

Symptoms can include:

  • The leg is in an abnormal position.
  • Difficulty moving.
  • Severe hip pain.
  • Inability to bear weight.
  • Mechanical lower back pain can create confusion when making a proper diagnosis.
  • With a posterior dislocation, the knee and foot will be rotated towards the body’s midline.
  • An anterior dislocation will rotate the knee and foot away from the midline. (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2021)

Causes

A dislocation can cause damage to the structures that hold the ball in the socket and can include:

  • Cartilage damage to the joint –
  • Tears in the labrum and ligaments.
  • Fractures of the bone at the joint.
  • Injury to the vessels that supply blood can later lead to avascular necrosis or osteonecrosis of the hip. (Patrick Kellam, Robert F. Ostrum 2016)
  • A hip dislocation increases the risk of developing joint arthritis following the injury and can raise the risk of needing a hip replacement later in life. (Hsuan-Hsiao Ma et al., 2020)

Developmental Dislocation of the Hip

  • Some children are born with developmental dislocation of the hip or DDH.
  • Children with DDH have hip joints that did not form correctly during development.
  • This causes a loose fit in the socket.
  • In some cases, the hip joint is completely dislocated.
  • In others, it’s prone to becoming dislocated.
  • In milder cases, the joint is loose but not prone to becoming dislocated. (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2022)

Treatment

Joint reduction is the most common way to treat a dislocated hip. The procedure repositions the ball back into the socket and is usually done with sedation or under general anesthesia. Repositioning a hip requires significant force.  A hip dislocation is considered an emergency, and reduction should be performed immediately after the dislocation to prevent permanent complications and invasive treatment. (Caylyne Arnold et al., 2017)

  • Once the ball is back in the socket, the healthcare provider will look for bone, cartilage, and ligament injuries.
  • Depending on what the healthcare provider finds, further treatment may be necessary.
  • Fractured or broken bones may need to be repaired to keep the ball within the socket.
  • Damaged cartilage may have to be removed.

Surgery

Surgery could be necessary to return the joint to its normal position. Hip arthroscopy can minimize the invasiveness of certain procedures. A surgeon inserts a microscopic camera into the hip joint to help the surgeon repair the injury using instruments inserted through other small incisions.

Hip replacement surgery replaces the ball and socket, a common and successful orthopedic surgical procedure. This surgery may be performed for various reasons, including trauma or arthritis, as it is common to develop early arthritis of the hip after this type of trauma. This is why many who have a dislocation ultimately need hip replacement surgery. As a major surgical procedure, it is not without risks. Possible complications include:

  • Infection
  • Aseptic loosening (the loosening of the joint without infection)
  • Hip dislocation

Recovery

Recovering from a hip dislocation is a long process. Individuals will need to walk with crutches or other devices early in recovery. Physical therapy will improve the range of motion and strengthen the muscles around the hip. Recovery time will depend on whether other injuries, such as fractures or tears, are present. If the hip joint was reduced and there were no other injuries, it may take six to ten weeks to recover to the point where weight can be placed on the leg. It could be between two and three months for a full recovery. Keeping weight off the leg is important until the surgeon or physical therapist gives the all-clear. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic will work with an individual’s primary healthcare provider and other surgeons or specialists to develop an optimal personalized treatment plan.


Chiropractic Solutions for Osteoarthritis


References

Arnold, C., Fayos, Z., Bruner, D., Arnold, D., Gupta, N., & Nusbaum, J. (2017). Managing dislocations of the hip, knee, and ankle in the emergency department [digest]. Emergency medicine practice, 19(12 Suppl Points & Pearls), 1–2.

Dargel, J., Oppermann, J., Brüggemann, G. P., & Eysel, P. (2014). Dislocation following total hip replacement. Deutsches Arzteblatt international, 111(51-52), 884–890. doi.org/10.3238/arztebl.2014.0884

Walker, P., Ellis, E., Scofield, J., Kongchum, T., Sherman, W. F., & Kaye, A. D. (2021). Snapping Hip Syndrome: A Comprehensive Update. Orthopedic reviews, 13(2), 25088. doi.org/10.52965/001c.25088

Cornwall, R., & Radomisli, T. E. (2000). Nerve injury in traumatic dislocation of the hip. Clinical orthopaedics and related research, (377), 84–91. doi.org/10.1097/00003086-200008000-00012

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2021). Hip dislocation. orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/hip-dislocation

Kellam, P., & Ostrum, R. F. (2016). Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Avascular Necrosis and Posttraumatic Arthritis After Traumatic Hip Dislocation. Journal of orthopaedic trauma, 30(1), 10–16. doi.org/10.1097/BOT.0000000000000419

Ma, H. H., Huang, C. C., Pai, F. Y., Chang, M. C., Chen, W. M., & Huang, T. F. (2020). Long-term results in the patients with traumatic hip fracture-dislocation: Important prognostic factors. Journal of the Chinese Medical Association : JCMA, 83(7), 686–689. doi.org/10.1097/JCMA.0000000000000366

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2022). Developmental dislocation (dysplasia) of the hip (DDH). orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/developmental-dislocation-dysplasia-of-the-hip-ddh/

Kinesiology Tape for Sacroiliac Joint Pain: Relief and Management

Kinesiology Tape for Sacroiliac Joint Pain: Relief and Management

For individuals experiencing sacroiliac joint/SIJ dysfunction and pain, could applying kinesiology tape help bring relief and manage symptoms?

Kinesiology Tape for Sacroiliac Joint Pain: Relief and Management

Kinesiology Tape For Sacroiliac Joint Pain

A lower back ailment that is common during pregnancy. The pain is usually on one or both sides of the back, just above the buttocks, that comes and goes and can limit the ability to bend, sit, and perform various physical activities. (Moayad Al-Subahi et al., 2017) The therapeutic tape provides support while allowing for movement and may help treat and manage sacroiliac joint/SIJ pain by:

  • Decreasing muscle spasms.
  • Facilitating muscular function.
  • Increasing blood circulation to and around the pain site.
  • Decreasing muscle trigger points.

Mechanism

Some studies have found that taping the SI joint has benefits that include:

  1. One theory is it helps lift and hold the overlying tissues off of the SI joint, which helps decrease the pressure around it.
  2. Another theory is that lifting the tissues helps create a pressure differential under the tape, like non-surgical decompression, allowing increased circulation to the tissues surrounding the sacroiliac joint.
  3. This floods the area with blood and nutrients, creating an optimal healing environment.

Application

A sacroiliac joint on the right and left sides connects the pelvis to the sacrum or the lowest part of the spine. To apply the kinesiology tape correctly, locate the lowest part of the back within the pelvic area. (Francisco Selva et al., 2019) Ask a friend or family member for help if you can’t reach the area.

Blog Image  Treating Sacroiliac DiagramTaping steps:

  • Cut three strips of tape, each 4 to 6 inches long.
  • Sit in a chair and bend the body slightly forward.
  • If someone is helping, you can stand and slightly bend forward.
  • Remove the lift-off strip in the middle and stretch the tape to expose several inches, leaving the ends covered.
  • Apply the exposed tape at an angle over the SI joint, like making the first line of an X, just above the buttocks, with full stretch on the tape.
  • Peel the lift-off strips from the ends and adhere them with no stretching.
  • Repeat the application steps with a second strip, adhering at a 45-degree angle to the first strip, making the X over the sacroiliac joint.
  • Repeat this with the final strip horizontally across the X made from the first two pieces.
  • There should be a tape pattern of star shape over the sacroiliac joint.
  1. Kinesiology tape can stay over the sacroiliac joint for three to five days.
  2. Watch for signs of irritation around the tape.
  3. Remove the tape if the skin becomes irritated, and consult your primary healthcare provider, physical therapist, or chiropractor for other treatment options.
  4. Some individuals with specific conditions should avoid using the tape and get confirmation that it’s safe.
  5. Individuals with severe sacroiliac pain where self-management is not working should see a healthcare provider, physical therapist, and or chiropractor for an evaluation and to learn therapeutic exercises and treatments to help manage the condition.

Sciatica During Pregnancy


References

Al-Subahi, M., Alayat, M., Alshehri, M. A., Helal, O., Alhasan, H., Alalawi, A., Takrouni, A., & Alfaqeh, A. (2017). The effectiveness of physiotherapy interventions for sacroiliac joint dysfunction: a systematic review. Journal of physical therapy science, 29(9), 1689–1694. doi.org/10.1589/jpts.29.1689

Do-Yun Shin and Ju-Young Heo. (2017). The Effects of Kinesiotaping Applied onto Erector Spinae and Sacroiliac Joint on Lumbar Flexibility. The Journal of Korean Physical Therapy, 307-315. doi.org/https://doi.org/10.18857/jkpt.2017.29.6.307

Selva, F., Pardo, A., Aguado, X., Montava, I., Gil-Santos, L., & Barrios, C. (2019). A study of reproducibility of kinesiology tape applications: review, reliability and validity. BMC musculoskeletal disorders, 20(1), 153. doi.org/10.1186/s12891-019-2533-0

Discover Nonsurgical Solutions for Hip Pain and Plantar Fasciitis

Discover Nonsurgical Solutions for Hip Pain and Plantar Fasciitis

Can plantar fasciitis patients incorporate non-surgical treatments to reduce hip pain and restore mobility?

Introduction

Everyone is on their feet constantly as it helps people stay mobile and allows them to go from one location to another. Many people are constantly on their feet from childhood to adulthood. This is because the feet are part of the lower musculoskeletal extremities that stabilize the hips and allow sensory-motor function to the legs, thighs, and calves. The feet also have various muscles, tendons, and ligaments surrounding the skeletal structure to prevent pain and discomfort. However, when repetitive motions or injuries start to affect the feet, it can lead to plantar fasciitis and, over time, cause overlapping risk profiles that lead to hip pain. When people are experiencing these pain-like conditions, it can significantly affect their daily activities and overall quality of life. When this happens, many people seek various treatments to reduce the pain-like symptoms caused by plantar fasciitis and restore hip mobility. Today’s article looks at how plantar fasciitis correlates with hip pain, the connection between the feet and the hips, and how there are non-surgical solutions to reduce plantar fasciitis. We talk with certified medical providers who consolidate our patients’ information to assess how to mitigate plantar fasciitis and restore hip mobility. We also inform and guide patients on how numerous non-surgical treatments can help strengthen weak muscles associated with plantar fasciitis and help with restoring stabilization from hip pain. We encourage our patients to ask their associated medical providers intricate and important questions about incorporating small changes to reduce the pain-like effects caused by plantar fasciitis. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., includes this information as an academic service. Disclaimer.

 

How Plantar Fasciitis Correlates With Hip Pain

Do you experience pain in your heels constantly after a long walk? Do you feel stiffness in your hips when stretching? Or do you feel your shoes are causing tension and pain in your feet and calves? Often, many of these pain-like scenarios are due to people dealing with plantar fasciitis, characterized by heel pain due to inflammation or degenerative irritation of the plantar fascia, a band of thick tissues is running across the bottom of the foot and connecting to the heel bone to the toes in the lower extremities. This band of tissues plays an essential role in the body, providing normal biomechanics to the foot while supporting the arch and helping with shock absorption. (Buchanan et al., 2024) Plantar fasciitis can affect the stability of the lower extremities since the pain affects the feet and causes hip pain.

 

 

So, how would plantar fasciitis correlate with hip pain? With plantar fasciitis, many people are experiencing pain in their feet. It can lead to abnormal foot posture, lower extremity muscle weakness, and muscle stress that can reduce the stability of the legs and hip muscles. (Lee et al., 2022) With hip pain, many people can experience a gait dysfunction that causes muscle weakness in the lower extremities and causes the accessory muscles to perform the primary muscles’ jobs. To that point, this forces people to scrap the ground when walking. (Ahuja et al., 2020) This is because normal conditions like natural aging, muscle overuse, or trauma can cause pain-like symptoms to the hips, including discomfort on the thighs, groin, and buttock region, joint stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Hip pain can cause overlapping risk profiles that may include repetitive strain on the feet, thus leading to symptoms of sharp to dull aches on the heel.

 

The Connection Between The Feet and The Hips

It is important to understand that foot problems like plantar fasciitis can affect the hips and vice versa, as both body regions have a beautiful relationship within the musculoskeletal system. Plantar fasciitis on their feet can alter their gait function, potentially leading to hip pain over time. This is due to many environmental factors that can affect the hips and feet over time, leading to plantar fasciitis correlating with hip pain. From excessive weight-bearing activities to microtrauma in the hips or the plantar fascia, many people will often seek treatment to reduce the effects of plantar fasciitis correlated with hip pain by addressing how their range of motion is affecting the plantarflexion and their load on the force-absorbing plantar surface structures could be good starting points in the prevention and treatment of plantar fasciitis correlated with hip pain. (Hamstra-Wright et al., 2021)

 


What Is Plantar Fasciitis?-Video


Non-Surgical Solutions To Reduce Plantar Fasciitis

When it comes to reducing plantar fasciitis in the body, many individuals will seek non-surgical treatments that can alleviate the pain from plantar fascia. Non-surgical treatments are cost-effective and can reduce the pain from plantar fasciitis and its associated symptoms, like hip pain. Some of the benefits of non-surgical treatments are promising, as they have a low risk of complications, good accessibility, and even a high capacity to relieve the mechanical load on the plantar fascia when doing regular activities. (Schuitema et al., 2020) Some of the non-surgical treatments that many people can incorporate include:

  • Stretching exercises
  • Orthotic devices
  • Chiropractic care
  • Massage therapy
  • Acupuncture/electroacupuncture
  • Spinal decompression

 

These non-surgical treatments not only help reduce plantar fasciitis but also help alleviate hip pain. For example, spinal decompression can help restore hip mobility by stretching the lumbar spine and relieving the lower extremities from numbness while strengthening tight muscles. (Takagi et al., 2023). Electroacupuncture can stimulate the body’s acupoints to release endorphins from the lower extremities to reduce inflammation of the plantar fascia. (Wang et al., 2019) When people begin to make small changes in their routine, like wearing proper footwear and not carrying or lifting heavy weighted objects, it can go a long way to prevent plantar fasciitis and hip pain from reoccurring can go a long way. Having a personalized treatment plan can ensure many individuals seeking non-surgical treatments have a better outcome on their health and mobility while preventing long-term complications. 

 


References

Ahuja, V., Thapa, D., Patial, S., Chander, A., & Ahuja, A. (2020). Chronic hip pain in adults: Current knowledge and future prospective. J Anaesthesiol Clin Pharmacol, 36(4), 450-457. doi.org/10.4103/joacp.JOACP_170_19

Buchanan, B. K., Sina, R. E., & Kushner, D. (2024). Plantar Fasciitis. In StatPearls. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28613727

Hamstra-Wright, K. L., Huxel Bliven, K. C., Bay, R. C., & Aydemir, B. (2021). Risk Factors for Plantar Fasciitis in Physically Active Individuals: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Sports Health, 13(3), 296-303. doi.org/10.1177/1941738120970976

Lee, J. H., Shin, K. H., Jung, T. S., & Jang, W. Y. (2022). Lower Extremity Muscle Performance and Foot Pressure in Patients Who Have Plantar Fasciitis with and without Flat Foot Posture. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 20(1). doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20010087

Schuitema, D., Greve, C., Postema, K., Dekker, R., & Hijmans, J. M. (2020). Effectiveness of Mechanical Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis: A Systematic Review. J Sport Rehabil, 29(5), 657-674. doi.org/10.1123/jsr.2019-0036

Takagi, Y., Yamada, H., Ebara, H., Hayashi, H., Inatani, H., Toyooka, K., Mori, A., Kitano, Y., Nakanami, A., Kagechika, K., Yahata, T., & Tsuchiya, H. (2023). Decompression for lumbar spinal stenosis at the intrathecal catheter insertion site during intrathecal baclofen therapy: a case report. J Med Case Rep, 17(1), 239. doi.org/10.1186/s13256-023-03959-1

Wang, W., Liu, Y., Zhao, J., Jiao, R., & Liu, Z. (2019). Electroacupuncture versus manual acupuncture in the treatment of plantar heel pain syndrome: study protocol for an upcoming randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open, 9(4), e026147. doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2018-026147

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