The hip is one of the largest joints in the body and supports a lot of weight. You use it a lot during the day, so it’s not surprising that hip pain is a common problem. You may be even more at risk for hip pain if you are physically active.
Fortunately, there are many things you can do at home to relieve hip pain and keep it from getting worse. Here are some treatments you can try:
1. Exercise And Stretching
If you have hip pain, one of the best things you can do is exercise and stretch. Exercise helps strengthen the muscles around your hip joints and can help take some of the pressure off your hips. Stretching can also help loosen up muscles and tendons around your hips, relieving pain.
Different exercises and stretches can help your hip recover. For example, you can try the following:
Hip Abduction
Lie on your side with your legs straight. Raise your top leg as high as you can without arching your back. Hold it for five seconds, and repeat it ten times.
Hip Extension
Lie on your stomach with your legs straight. Slowly raise one leg behind you as far as you can without arching your back. Hold it for five seconds, and repeat it ten times.
Pelvic Tilts
Lie face up and keep your knees bent. Your feet should also remain flat on the floor. Flatten your lower back down to the floor and hold for five seconds. Repeat ten times.
2. Apply Ice Or Heat
Applying ice or heat to your hips can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Ice can numb the area and reduce swelling, while heat can loosen up muscles and increase blood flow in the area.
To use ice, wrap an ice pack in a towel and apply it to your hip for 15-20 minutes. To use heat, you can use a heating pad or take a warm bath. Be careful not to burn yourself.
3. Take Over-The-Counter Medications
If your hip pain is mild, you may be able to relieve it with over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. They are excellent at reducing inflammation and pain.
Take them as directed on the package. If you have any medical conditions or are taking other medications, talk to your doctor before taking over-the-counter medication for hip pain.
4. Use A Pillow Or Brace
You may put a pillow between your knees to take some pressure off your hips if you sleep on your side. You can try using one under your stomach if you sleep on your back.
If your hip pain is severe, you may want to wear a brace or wrap it around your hip for support. You can get these at most drugstores or medical supply stores.
When To See A Doctor For Hip Pain
If your hip pain is severe or does not improve with home treatment, you should see a doctor. You may need more potent medication or other treatments.
You should also see your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Fever
- Redness, warmth, or swelling in the affected area
- Unusual drainage from the affected area
- Hip pain that does not go away after rest or a decrease in activity
- Hip pain that gets worse at night
- Hip pain that limits your ability to move your leg or walk
- Weakness, numbness, or tingling in the leg
- Hip pain that comes with stomach pain, chest pain, or shortness of breath
These may be signs of a more severe condition, such as a hip fracture or infection. As such, don’t delay seeking medical attention if you develop any of these symptoms.
Hip Pain Treatment In Plantation, FL
Hip pain can make it challenging to live your life, but you don’t have to push through it. You can try home treatments like exercise, stretching, icing, and heating. If these don’t work, you can also take over-the-counter medications. You may need to consult a doctor for severe or chronic pain.
Are you looking for effective hip pain treatment in Plantation, FL? Look no further than Baylis and Brown Orthopedics. We can help you achieve a pain-free life and return to your routine. You may call our friendly staff at (954) 476-8800 to learn about our comprehensive services. You may also use our convenient request form to book a visit with the best orthopedic doctor near you.
We look forward to serving you!
