Hip pain what doctor to see

Pain on the side of the body is rarely caused by the hip joint. The symptoms of pain going down the leg could be consistent with sciatica. Sciatica is a condition where the nerve is compressed coming out of the spine, therefore causing pain over the distribution of the nerve. This compression can occur because of a broken bone or simply from wear and tear on the spine with age.

This is known as degenerative joint disease. There are other causes of pain. Trochanteric bursitis is a common cause of pain on the side, but rarely goes down. Iliotibial band syndrome can cause it as well. Talk to a primary care doctor. He or she can help manage many of the above conditions.

Zocdoc Answers is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Reviewed: October 7, Medically Reviewed. An orthopedist has had years of education that culminates in formal training in the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries and diseases.

After their training, most orthopedists pursue board certification, so you should seek out an orthopedist who is already board-certified or is in the process of obtaining certification board-eligible. You will want to check with your health insurance carrier to make sure the services provided by the doctors you are considering are covered under your plan.

Do some research. Vail also recommends doing some online research, but with caution. Look for surgeons specializing in the hip. In general, an orthopedist helps to prevent, diagnose, and treat injuries of the musculoskeletal system.

Bone up on hip procedures yourself. The more information you have, the better you and your orthopedist will be able to discuss your options. Fluid-filled sacs bursae provide cushioning between bones, muscles, and tendons. When a disease, inflammation, wear and tear, or other issue affects one of these parts, you may experience pain. Hip pain is extremely common and can be difficult for most people to determine exactly where it is coming from.

Sometimes the pain is related to the hip joint itself, but it can also be related to conditions in other parts of your body. If these remedies do not offer adequate relief and you find that your pain is interfering with your life, you should see an orthopedic hip specialist. After reviewing your medical history with you, including specific information about the severity of your hip pain, where it hurts, and how long the pain has lasted.

Next, I will examine you in order to assess the range of motion and strength around your hip as well as your walking. Tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, may also be warranted if more information is needed about your hip joint, cartilage, muscles, or other supporting structure, as well as nearby areas of your body that could be causing the pain in your hip. CT scans and blood work may be necessary in some, but not all, cases.