Hip/Pelvis Problems

The pelvis is a basin-shaped structure of bones that support the spine and protects the abdominal organs. The hip joint is where the pelvis bone and thigh bone meet. Characterized by pain in the groin and tenderness over the front of the pelvis, the hip joint can be a source of pain for people. Additionally, there are joints in the front and back of the pelvis that can also lead to pain in these areas.

Symptoms of Pelvic Problems

While everyone may experience hip and pelvic problems differently, common symptoms include the following:

• Pain in the hips/groin region
• Pain in the front of the pelvis
• Pain in the low back and back of the pelvis
• Tailbone pain
• Buttock pain
• Pelvic floor pain

Causes of Hip/Pelvic Problems

Pain in the hip/pelvis can include the following:

• Labral injury/tears
• Cartilage injury
• Osteoarthritis
• Bursitis (greater trochanter, iliopsoas, ischial)
• Ligament injury
• Muscle injury
• Sprain/strain
• Instability
• Hypermobility
• Tendinopathy/tendon tear
• Overuse injury
• Nerve conditions
• Bone injury/fracture
• Congenital/alignment abnormalities
• Dislocation/subluxation
• Pregnancy
• Pelvic floor disorders
• Pelvic organ disorders

Diagnosing Hip/Pelvic Problems

Your doctor may use several tests, including the following, to find the cause of pelvic pain:

• X-ray
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Computed tomography scan (also called a CT or CAT scan)
• Electromyogram/nerve condition (EMG/NCV) to evaluate nerve and muscle function
• Ultrasound
• Laboratory tests, if needed

Treatments for Hip/Pelvic Problems

Your doctor will work with you to determine the best treatment plan based on your age, overall health, and medical history; the severity of your condition; and your tolerance for certain medications, procedures, or therapies.

Treatments for pelvic problems may include activity modification, exercise, medication, physical therapy, pain management techniques, injections, and surgery.

Why Choose Columbia for Hip/Pelvis Pain Care

Our physicians are highly skilled in diagnosing and treating hip/pelvic pain conditions. We perform a thorough diagnostic evaluation to determine the cause of your hip/pelvis pain and plan the most conservative treatment possible. Exercise, lifestyle changes, and medications can help to manage an episode of hip or pelvic pain. We emphasize conservative care whenever feasible, including the use of exercise, lifestyle changes, and, if needed, injections or other pain management techniques. Our physicians may use imaging to help guide injections to ensure the appropriate placement of the medication. If a hip condition does not improve, we work closely with Columbia orthopedic surgeons for cases that may require a procedure.