Hip Pain and Chiropractic Care: Assessment, Options and Safety
Updated: Oct 19
Hip pain can come from the joint, surrounding tendons or other structures, and sometimes pain is referred from the back. Chiropractic care is not suitable for every cause, so assessment comes first.
Describe where the pain is
Groin pain, pain on the outside of the hip and pain traveling from the back into the leg suggest different possibilities. Note whether walking, stairs, lying on your side or getting out of a chair brings it on.
Match the treatment to the cause
An examination can assess movement, strength, walking and relevant neurological signs. Arthritis, a tendon problem, a fracture and referred pain need different plans. For hip osteoarthritis, therapeutic exercise is a core option; manual therapy may be considered alongside exercise rather than as a standalone cure.
Useful steps while arranging advice
- Avoid repeatedly provoking sharp pain, but discuss ways to remain active within your current tolerance.
- Record how far you can walk and which daily tasks are becoming difficult so that changes can be measured.
- Tell the clinician about falls, osteoporosis, previous surgery, fever and any new weakness or numbness.
- Ask whether medical imaging, physical therapy or specialist input would change the plan and when progress should be reviewed.
When hip pain is urgent
Severe hip pain after a fall or inability to walk or bear weight needs emergency-department assessment; call 911 if you cannot get there safely. A hot swollen hip with fever needs urgent same-day medical assessment. Do not delay care for manipulation.
Discuss hip symptoms in Waynesville
Haywood Spine and Nerve Center is at 136 Waynesville Plaza, Suite 1, Waynesville, NC 28786. Call (828) 456-5700 to ask about an evaluation and appropriate referral. Emergency symptoms need emergency care.
A useful goal is a specific function, such as climbing stairs or walking comfortably, rather than a promise to put every hip back into place.
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