Hypermobility Hip Pain: Understanding, Treatment, and Management

Do your hips ache more than usual? Could hypermobility be the culprit? In a world where movement is key, the flexibility of our joints plays a vital role. However, when that flexibility extends beyond the normal range, it can lead to discomfort and pain. This is precisely where hypermobility comes into the picture. In this article, we’ll focus on hypermobility hip pain – a condition that can significantly impact one’s quality of life.

Understanding Hypermobility Hip Pain

Hypermobility refers to the ability of a joint to move beyond its normal range of motion. It can be present in various joints throughout the body, including the hips. Hypermobility in the hips can lead to joint instability and pain, a condition often referred to as “hypermobility hip pain” or “hip hypermobility syndrome.”

Here’s a breakdown of understanding hypermobility hip pain:

Hypermobility: Hypermobility can be caused by various factors, including genetics, collagen disorders (like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome), and certain medical conditions. When a joint is hypermobile, the ligaments and other supportive structures around the joint are looser than normal, allowing for a greater range of motion. While some degree of joint flexibility is healthy, excessive hypermobility can lead to joint instability and associated problems.

Hip Hypermobility: When the hips are hypermobile, it means that the ball-and-socket joint of the hip allows for more movement than is typical. This can result in the hip joint being less stable, leading to pain and discomfort.

Symptoms of Hypermobility Hip Pain

Hypermobility hip pain can manifest through a variety of symptoms, which can range from mild discomfort to more severe pain and functional limitations. Here are some common symptoms associated with hypermobility hip pain:

• Hip Pain: Pain in the hip joint or the groin area is a primary symptom. The pain might be described as aching, sharp, or stabbing. It can be aggravated by movement, weight-bearing activities, or prolonged sitting or standing.
• Instability: Individuals with hypermobility in the hips might experience a sense of instability or “giving way” of the hip joint. This can make activities like walking, running, or even standing feel challenging or uncertain.
• Clicking or Popping Sensations: Some people with hypermobility hip pain might notice clicking, popping, or snapping sensations in the hip joint during movement. These noises can be indicative of joint instability or abnormal movement patterns.
• Muscle Weakness and Fatigue: Hypermobile hip joints can lead to muscle imbalances and weakness in the muscles that support the hip and pelvis. This can result in muscle fatigue, particularly after engaging in physical activities.
• Limited Range of Motion: Paradoxically, while hypermobility implies an excessive range of motion, some individuals might experience a limited range of motion in certain directions due to pain or the body’s attempt to compensate for instability.
• Difficulty with Weight-Bearing Activities: Activities that involve putting weight on the affected hip, such as walking, climbing stairs, or standing for extended periods, can exacerbate pain and discomfort.
• Recurrent Hip Dislocations: In more severe cases of hypermobility, the hip joint might be prone to partial or complete dislocations. This can cause intense pain and may require immediate medical attention to reduce the dislocation and alleviate pain.

Diagnosing Hypermobility Hip Pain

Diagnosing hypermobility hip pain involves a comprehensive assessment by a healthcare professional, typically an orthopedic specialist, rheumatologist, or physical therapist. The process includes a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and sometimes imaging studies. Here’s what you can expect during the diagnostic process:

1. Medical History: Your healthcare provider will start by asking you about your symptoms, including the location, nature, and duration of your hip pain. They will also inquire about any previous injuries, surgeries, or medical conditions that might be relevant.

2. Physical Examination: During the physical examination, the healthcare provider will assess your hip joint’s range of motion, stability, and any signs of hypermobility. They might use tools like the Beighton score, which involves assessing hypermobility in various joints, to determine the extent of generalized joint laxity. The examiner might also observe your gait (walking pattern) and look for any abnormal movement patterns.

3. Imaging Studies: In some cases, imaging studies might be necessary to assess the structure of the hip joint and rule out other potential causes of hip pain. Common imaging methods include:

• X-rays: These can help visualize the bones and joint alignment. X-rays can reveal abnormalities, such as hip dysplasia or osteoarthritis.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): An MRI provides detailed images of soft tissues, such as muscles, ligaments, and cartilage. It can help identify issues like labral tears or soft tissue abnormalities.

Treatment Options

Preventive Measures

While hypermobility is often a genetic trait and cannot be completely prevented, there are preventive measures and lifestyle adjustments that can help manage and minimize the impact of hypermobility-related issues, including hip pain. Here are some preventive measures to consider:

• Physical Activity and Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to promote joint strength, stability, and overall fitness. Focus on low-impact exercises that enhance muscle tone and control without putting excessive stress on the joints. Work with a physical therapist to develop a safe and effective exercise program.
• Strength Training: Participate in strength training exercises that target the muscles around the hip joint and provide stability. Strengthening these muscles can help compensate for the laxity of the joint ligaments. Emphasize exercises that target the hip abductors, adductors, and gluteal muscles.
• Proper Body Mechanics: Practice good posture and body mechanics during daily activities. Use proper lifting techniques, avoid prolonged periods of standing or sitting, and maintain a neutral alignment of the spine and pelvis.
• Joint Protection: Be mindful of your joint movements and avoid excessive stretching or forceful motions that might exacerbate hypermobility. Listen to your body’s cues and avoid overextending your joints.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce stress on the joints, including the hips. Excess weight can contribute to joint discomfort and pain.
• Balanced Nutrition: Eating a well-balanced diet rich in nutrients, including vitamins and minerals that support joint health, can contribute to overall joint wellness.
• Stay Hydrated: Adequate hydration supports joint lubrication and can help maintain joint function.
• Avoid Overuse: While staying active is important, avoid overexertion and excessive repetitive movements that could strain the hip joint.
• Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your body’s signals. If an activity or movement causes discomfort or pain, modify or stop the activity to prevent further stress on the joint.
• Orthopedic Consultation: If you have a family history of hypermobility or experience recurring joint issues, consider consulting with an orthopedic specialist or rheumatologist. They can guide managing joint hypermobility and offer personalized recommendations.
• Warm-Up and Cool-Down: Before engaging in physical activity, warm up your muscles with gentle stretching and low-impact movements. Afterward, cool down with gentle stretches to maintain flexibility without straining the joints.

Conclusion

Hypermobility hip pain can present its challenges, but with the right knowledge and proactive approach, it’s a condition that can be effectively managed. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options, individuals can regain control over their hip health and lead a fulfilling, pain-free life.

If you’re experiencing Hip pain, physical therapy for hip pain at PhysioMantra can help: Book an online physical therapy session.