Expert Care for a Range of Hip Conditions
Tendon Tears & Overuse Injuries in the Hip
The hip is one of the most stable and powerful joints in the body, supported by a complex network of muscles and tendons that allow smooth movement and balance. Tendons are strong bands of tissue that connect muscle to bone, but when they become overused, irritated, or torn, they can lead to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Common overuse conditions include iliotibial (IT) band syndrome, where repetitive motion causes pain on the outer hip or knee, and snapping hip syndrome, where the iliopsoas tendon rubs or snaps over the front of the hip, leading to discomfort and inflammation. In more serious cases, patients may experience partial or full tears of tendons such as the gluteus medius, which play a critical role in hip stability. These tendon tears can cause pain on the outer side of the hip and may result in limping or weakness. Whether due to overuse or injury, these conditions can greatly affect daily life, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, many patients can return to normal activity.
Understanding the Anatomy of the Hip Joint
To understand how tendon tears and overuse injuries occur in the hip, it's helpful to first look at the hip's anatomy. The hip is a ball-and-socket joint, surrounded by powerful muscles and tendons that help support movement and stability. Tendons connect muscles, such as the gluteus medius, to the greater trochanter, a bony area on the outside of the femur. When these tendons are overused or strained over time, they can become irritated or even tear, especially in active individuals or those with poor biomechanics.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing hip conditions involves a thorough evaluation that includes reviewing your medical history, assessing your current symptoms, and performing a detailed physical examination. During the exam, specific tests may be used to evaluate range of motion, joint stability, muscle strength, and areas of tenderness or discomfort. Imaging studies often play a key role in diagnosis. X-rays can help identify structural abnormalities or rule out fractures, while MRI or MR arthrogram can provide detailed images of soft tissues such as cartilage, tendons, and the labrum.
Treatment Options for Hip Conditions
Many people with hip conditions find relief through non-surgical options tailored to their specific needs. These may include targeted physical therapy to improve strength and stability, activity modification to reduce strain on the hip, anti-inflammatory medications to manage pain and swelling, and in some cases, regenerative treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections to support healing.
Endoscopic care is a minimally invasive option available for treating certain hip conditions, especially tendon injuries. This technique can be used to repair torn or damaged tendons, remove inflamed tissue, or address irritation from overuse. Because it involves smaller incisions and less disruption to surrounding tissue, endoscopic procedures often result in less pain, quicker recovery, and faster return to activity.
What is the American Hip Institute?
The American Hip Institute is the #1 clinic in the United States for advanced hip treatment, offering the best outcomes and patient experience in the world.
Hip Treatment at the American Hip Institute
The American Hip Institute specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures to treat tendon injuries and overuse conditions around the hip. Our surgeons use cutting-edge, minimally invasive techniques to precisely identify and repair damaged tissue while preserving surrounding structures. Endoscopic care allows for smaller incisions, reduced pain, and a quicker recovery, helping patients return to their daily activities sooner. With extensive experience and a patient-centered approach, AHI leads the way in delivering expert care for tendon-related hip conditions.
American Hip Institute by The Numbers
- 1stIn the nation to perform outpatient robotic hip surgery
- 10000+Hip surgeries performed by AHI surgeons
- 550+Research articles published by the team, driving innovation in hip treatment
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Judy K. Discusses Her Successful Gluteus Medius Repairs in her 70s at AHI
The combination of surgeons, PTs, and the entire American Hip Institute team has been a true game changer for me. I am back to my active, traveling self and could not be more grateful for their help, support, and belief that someone in her 70s can heal and be active again after a traumatic injury.
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Realtor Sees Quick Relief After Hip Arthroscopy
I am very very happy to say that the doctors and the staff at AHI have just solved my problems and I am so happy to refer them!
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Congratulations to Denise K. for representing Team USA in the World Triathlon Championship!
Everyone at American Hip Institute-from the receptionists to the clinic team to the financial department-was extremely professional. I am eternally grateful to American Hip Institute for allowing me to have a triumphant return to triathlons!
Meet Our Team!
The American Hip Institute is the first medical center in the nation dedicated exclusively to the treatment of hip conditions, with specialized expertise in diagnosing and treating tendon injuries and other soft tissue conditions around the hip. Our team understands the wide range of factors that can contribute to hip pain, including overuse, tears, inflammation, and biomechanical imbalances. We offer a comprehensive, personalized approach to care, ranging from conservative treatments like physical therapy and targeted injections to advanced, minimally invasive surgical procedures. With a strong foundation in research and a commitment to patient-centered care, AHI continues to set the standard in treating complex hip conditions.
