Are You Too Hip for This?

Are You Too Hip for This?

Sometimes we take the simple things for granted.

Take the hip joint, for example. Since the hip is a major weight-bearing joint, any injuries or discomfort can impact the ability to sit, stand and walk. We know about posture and the lower back, but the hip joint doesn’t get a lot of attention.

In fact, gradual wear and tear of the hip joint and the surrounding muscles can lead to pain and discomfort over time. In some cases, this may lead to hip replacement surgery. A complex network of muscles and ligaments surround the hip joint to keep it stable, and mobile at the same time. The hip can function as a weight bearing joint, and dislocations are minimized.

When the hip is injured or operated upon, the ligaments and the muscles around the hip need time to heal and scar tissue forms. This can increase the possibility of a dislocation, cause pain and restrict motion. Physical therapy will help regain hip mobility and function while preventing postures that can harm the healing hip.

Hip Hip Hooray

Modern society comes with desk jobs, prolonged sitting, and repetitive motions that weaken the hip joints. As a result, the lower back and knees are forced to compensate. Muscle imbalances and poor posture compound the problem. Over time, this reinforces poor movement patterns, eventually resulting in pain and discomfort.

It’s not too late, however, to say ‘Hip, Hip, Hooray!’ Regular walking is the easiest way to keep the hip joint healthy. Try and get in as many steps as you can every day and involve a friend or significant other.

Before you start any exercises, schedule an appointment with us. As your physical therapists, we will evaluate and identify ways to protect and strengthen your hip joints. The truth is – most individuals have unstable, weak hip joints with limited movements. We can help address this right away. Don’t compound the problem by ignoring it.

Schedule an appointment with us right away, and we’ll tell you what’s going on within minutes of your initial evaluation. Physical therapy can indeed change your life. We look forward to working with you.