Hip Q&A

What causes hip problems?

Age-related wear-and-tear and sports injuries are two of the most common causes of hip problems. Specific issues affecting the hip joints include: 

  • Osteoarthritis
  • Cartilage injuries
  • Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI)
  • Fractures
  • Labral tears
  • Hamstring injuries
  • Snapping hip
  • Trochanteric bursitis

As you age, you’re more likely to experience hip problems because the soft tissues supporting your hip joint loosen and weaken. You can also lose cartilage, the protective material covering the bones, leading to joint erosion. But hip problems can affect anyone, from adolescents to seniors.

When should I see a doctor for hip pain? 

If you have ongoing hip pain, hip-area swelling, stiffness, or trouble moving normally, call Jonathan Frank, MD. About half of older adults have either hip or knee pain as they age, but it doesn’t have to disrupt your life. 

 

Many joint preservation techniques are available today and can allow you to get back to your life, keep up with your family, and be as active as ever. 

How are hip problems treated?  

 

Generally, hip problems are treated using one of the following approaches. 

Nonsurgical care

 

Nonsurgical care is the first approach for hip problems. Dr. Frank recommends personalized physical therapy regimens and medication in many cases. Precision medicine treatments are another nonsurgical option. These treatments use biological (cell-based) substances from your blood, bone marrow, or from donated amniotic fluid or umbilical cords to trigger rapid healing.

Hip arthroscopy

Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure using small 3-4 mm incisions. With this approach, Dr. Frank views your hip joint using a tiny camera. He passes surgical tools into another incision and removes damaged, inflamed, or otherwise injured tissue. Arthroscopy can “clean up” the joint so it can function normally again.

Joint replacement

 

If nonsurgical care isn’t working any longer, and hip arthroscopy can’t fully address the damage in your hip joint, you could be a good candidate for hip replacement. Dr. Frank performs robotic-assisted hip replacements, the most advanced way to do the surgery. This technique maximizes precision and allows for a faster recovery than traditional joint replacement. 

 

After any hip surgery, you’ll receive a personalized rehabilitation protocol. This staged rehab approach helps you recapture your range of motion, strength, endurance, and agility safely. 

 

You can beat hip pain and be active again. Call Jonathan Frank, MD, or book your consultation with Dr. Frank using online scheduling today.