SOMA Living April 2023

FROM THE DOCTOR

LOW BACK PAIN VS HIP PAIN

Hip pain and back pain are different injuries but sometimes one can cause the other. There are times where low back pain is truly coming from the back and sometimes it is coming from the hip. Likewise, hip pain can come from the hip but there are times that it comes from the back. The difficult thing for most patients is determining the source of the problem. Each region has telltale signs of pain. For instance, if it is a back problem the pain is most often in the buttocks and travels down the back of the leg. There is also some centralized pain across the lower back and there may be some numbness involved. For hip problems, the pain is usually in the front of the hip joint around the groin and travels down the front of the leg (but not past the knee). There is stiffness and discomfort, especially with transfers to standing. Once the patient gets moving, the hip joint gets lubricated, and the pain or stiffness decreases. The best way to identify each condition is with a complete examination along with X-rays and MRIs. There are both surgical and non-surgical methods to treat back or hip pain. In my opinion, it’s better to start with non surgical treatments first. This includes rest or physical therapy. Depending on the specific cause of the issue, a physical therapist will tailor a program specific to your needs. In some cases, the pain can be caused by a pinched nerve or disc. The safest treatment for this condition is core strengthening activities as well as lumbar decompression. This method takes pressure off of the nerves and rehydrate the discs to allow healing and blood flow in the joint space. Tightness in the hip muscles requires flexibility exercises and soft tissue work. Different modalities can help with pain. PTs can use KT tape to stabilize the joint and promote proper motion. Or, they can use cold laser (if available) to help decrease inflammation and promote healing. In most cases, cold laser is effective at handling hip bursitis to shrink the inflammation of the bursa. Whether you have back or hip pain, or a combination of both, it is always a good idea to see a licensed physical therapist. The PT will work with you to identify the source of the problem, address your concerns, and create the best treatment plan for your unique needs.

South Orange Rehabilitation & Wellness We provide professional, individualized and effective physical therapy. Our health and wellness interventions promote healthy living and enhanced quality of life for all athletes and patients.

Specializing in: • Post Surgical Knee & Shoulder • Spinal Decompression for Herniated and Bulging Discs • Cold Laser to Increase Healing

SouthOrangeRehab.com (973) 761-0077 177 Valley Street, South Orange, New Jersey 07079

Dr. Daniel Roig South Orange Rehab Wellness SouthOrangeRehab.com 973-761-0077

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