Hip Pain

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

Hip pain can be caused by a number of conditions, such as bursitis, arthritis, or muscle or tendon strain. You may have swelling in the fluid-filled sacs that protect your muscles and tendons. Hip pain can also be caused by a lower back problem. Hip pain may be caused by trauma, playing sports, or running. Pain may start in your hip and go to your thigh, buttock, or groin.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Medicines:

• NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
  
  
• Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Return to the emergency department if:

• Your pain gets worse.
  
  
• You have numbness in your leg or toes.
  
  
• You cannot put any weight on or move your hip.

Contact your healthcare provider if:

• You have a fever.
  
  
• Your pain does not decrease, even after treatment.
  
  
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed: You may need physical therapy, an injection, or more testing. You may need to see an orthopedic specialist. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

Manage your hip pain:

• Rest your injured hip so that it can heal. You may need to avoid putting any weight on your hip for at least 48 hours. Return to normal activities as directed.
  
  
• Ice the injury for 20 minutes every 4 hours, or as directed. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover it with a towel to protect your skin. Ice helps prevent tissue damage and decreases swelling and pain.
  
  
• Elevate your injured hip above the level of your heart as often as you can. This will help decrease swelling and pain. If possible, prop your hip and leg on pillows or blankets to keep the area elevated comfortably.
  
  
• Maintain a healthy weight. Extra body weight can cause pressure and pain in your hip, knee, and ankle joints. Ask your healthcare provider how much you should weigh. Ask him or her to help you create a weight loss plan if you are overweight.
  
  
• Use assistive devices as directed. You may need to use a cane or crutches. Assistive devices help decrease pain and pressure on your hip when you walk. Ask your healthcare provider for more information about assistive devices and how to use them correctly.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.