Treating hip pain isn’t always straightforward. What seems like a pulled muscle or lower back strain could actually stem from a deeper issue within the hip joint. While general orthopedists manage many musculoskeletal conditions, certain hip problems demand more specialized insight. Here’s how to recognize when it’s time to consult a dedicated hip expert.
Your Groin Pain Isn’t Going Away
Groin pain is one of the most common, but often misunderstood, symptoms of a hip joint issue. While many assume groin pain stems from muscle strain or hernias, it can actually be a sign of hip labral tears, impingement, or cartilage damage. If you’ve been treated for groin pain without relief, a hip specialist can provide a more targeted evaluation and treatment plan.
You’ve Been Told It’s “Just Arthritis,” but You’re Young and Active
Hip arthritis is often diagnosed in older adults, but younger patients with hip impingement (FAI) or cartilage damage may be misdiagnosed with early arthritis. A hip preservation specialist can differentiate between these conditions and offer treatments, such as hip arthroscopy, that are designed to delay or even prevent the need for hip replacement.
You Struggle with Certain Movements or Positions
If everyday activities like getting in and out of a car, tying your shoes, or sitting for long periods aggravate your hip, that could point to structural issues in the joint. Hip specialists use advanced imaging and dynamic assessments to diagnose complex conditions that might not appear on standard X-rays.
You’ve Had Previous Hip Surgery and Still Have Pain
Persistent pain after hip surgery, such as a labral repair or even a hip replacement, warrants evaluation by a specialist with extensive experience in revision procedures and post-operative care. An expert in hip preservation and reconstruction can assess whether factors like biomechanics, implant positioning, or soft tissue healing are contributing to your ongoing symptoms.
You’re an Athlete with Recurring Hip or Groin Strain
For athletes, recurring hip or groin injuries can signal an underlying mechanical issue, not just a muscle problem. Specialists trained in sports-related hip conditions can assess for labral tears, FAI, and instability, and recommend motion-preserving treatments that get you back to peak performance.
At the American Hip Institute, our team specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of hip injuries and conditions. Schedule a consultation to learn how our dedicated, hip-specific care can support your recovery and help you maintain long-term mobility.
AUTHOR: Benjamin D. Kuhns, MD, MS, is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in the comprehensive management of adult hip pain. Dr. Kuhns offers a full spectrum of care, from non-operative treatments—including hip-specific physical therapy, medication management, and targeted injections—to advanced surgical solutions. His surgical expertise includes complex primary and revision hip arthroscopy, open hip preservation procedures such as periacetabular and proximal femoral osteotomies, and robotic-assisted anterior total hip replacement.