What causes hip and lower back pain on the right side. How can you treat hip and lower back pain at home. When should you see a doctor for hip and lower back pain. What are the most common conditions causing pain in the hip and lower back area.

Common Causes of Hip and Lower Back Pain

Hip and lower back pain often occur together, stemming from various factors that affect the interconnected structures in this region. Understanding these causes is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Sprains and Strains

One of the most frequent reasons for discomfort in the hip and lower back area is sprains and strains. A sprain occurs when ligaments are overstretched or torn, while a strain affects muscles or tendons. These injuries can result from:

• Sports-related incidents
• Falls or traumatic events
• Awkward body twisting
• Lifting heavy objects improperly
• Inadequate warm-up before physical activities

Symptoms of sprains and strains include muscle pain, weakness, tenderness, swelling, and reduced range of motion. The pain typically worsens with activity and improves with rest.

Tight Hip Flexors

The hip flexors are a group of muscles extending from the hips to the knees, playing a crucial role in leg and hip movement. When these muscles become tight, often due to prolonged sitting, it can lead to back and hip pain. Symptoms of tight hip flexors include:

• Tenderness in the upper leg
• Muscle spasms in the hips or thighs
• Soreness in the hips and thighs
• Weakness when kicking or lifting the knee towards the chest

Herniated Disk

A herniated disk occurs when one of the cushioning disks between the vertebrae slips out of place, potentially putting pressure on nearby nerves. This condition can cause tingling and burning pain in the lower back that may extend to the hips and legs. Common causes of herniated disks include:

• Improper lifting techniques
• Falls or trauma
• Excess body weight
• Repetitive strain on the back
• Prolonged periods of driving
• Smoking

Symptoms of a herniated disk may include sciatica, numbness in the leg or foot, and muscle weakness in the affected limb.

Diagnostic Approaches for Hip and Lower Back Pain

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment of hip and lower back pain. Healthcare providers employ various methods to identify the underlying cause of the discomfort.

Physical Examination

A thorough physical examination is typically the first step in diagnosing hip and lower back pain. During this assessment, the doctor may:

• Observe your posture and gait
• Test your range of motion
• Perform palpation to identify areas of tenderness
• Conduct specific tests to evaluate muscle strength and flexibility

Imaging Studies

Depending on the suspected cause, your healthcare provider may recommend imaging studies such as:

• X-rays: To visualize bone structures and detect fractures or arthritis
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): For detailed images of soft tissues, including muscles, ligaments, and intervertebral disks
• CT (Computed Tomography) scans: To provide cross-sectional images of the affected area

Blood Tests

In some cases, blood tests may be ordered to rule out systemic conditions that could contribute to hip and lower back pain, such as inflammatory arthritis or infections.

Treatment Options for Hip and Lower Back Pain

The treatment approach for hip and lower back pain depends on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. A combination of conservative measures and medical interventions may be recommended.

Conservative Management

For many cases of hip and lower back pain, initial treatment focuses on conservative measures, including:

• Rest and activity modification
• Application of ice or heat therapy
• Over-the-counter pain medications (e.g., NSAIDs)
• Gentle stretching exercises
• Physical therapy

Medications

Depending on the cause and severity of pain, your doctor may prescribe:

• Stronger pain relievers
• Muscle relaxants
• Anti-inflammatory medications

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in managing hip and lower back pain. A tailored exercise program can help:

• Strengthen supporting muscles
• Improve flexibility and range of motion
• Correct posture and body mechanics
• Reduce pain and prevent recurrence

Interventional Procedures

For more severe or persistent cases, interventional procedures may be considered, such as:

• Epidural steroid injections
• Facet joint injections
• Sacroiliac joint injections

Preventing Hip and Lower Back Pain

While not all cases of hip and lower back pain can be prevented, certain lifestyle modifications and practices can help reduce the risk of developing these issues.

Maintain Good Posture

Proper posture is crucial for spinal health and can help prevent unnecessary strain on the lower back and hips. Consider the following tips:

• Sit with your back straight and shoulders relaxed
• Use a chair with good lumbar support
• Keep your feet flat on the floor when sitting
• Stand with your weight evenly distributed on both feet

Exercise Regularly

Regular physical activity can help strengthen the muscles that support your spine and hips, improving flexibility and reducing the risk of pain. Focus on exercises that promote:

• Core strength
• Lower back flexibility
• Hip mobility
• Overall cardiovascular fitness

Practice Proper Lifting Techniques

Many cases of hip and lower back pain result from improper lifting. To protect your back and hips when lifting objects:

• Bend at your knees, not your waist
• Keep the object close to your body
• Avoid twisting while lifting
• Ask for help with heavy or awkward items

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Excess body weight puts additional stress on your lower back and hips. Maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise can help reduce the risk of pain and other related health issues.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Hip and Lower Back Pain

While many cases of hip and lower back pain can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant prompt medical attention. Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

• Severe pain that doesn’t improve with rest
• Pain accompanied by fever
• Unexplained weight loss
• Loss of bowel or bladder control
• Numbness or weakness in the legs
• Pain following a significant injury or fall

These symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires prompt evaluation and treatment.

Long-term Management of Chronic Hip and Lower Back Pain

For individuals dealing with chronic hip and lower back pain, long-term management strategies are essential for maintaining quality of life and preventing further complications.

Developing a Comprehensive Pain Management Plan

A multidisciplinary approach is often the most effective way to manage chronic pain. This may include:

• Regular consultations with a pain specialist
• Ongoing physical therapy
• Psychological support or cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Complementary therapies such as acupuncture or massage
• Lifestyle modifications

Ergonomic Considerations

Making ergonomic adjustments in your daily environment can significantly impact chronic pain management. Consider the following:

• Use an ergonomic chair and desk setup at work
• Invest in a supportive mattress and pillows
• Use assistive devices when necessary to reduce strain on your back and hips

Stress Management

Chronic pain and stress often form a vicious cycle. Implementing stress-reduction techniques can help manage pain levels:

• Practice mindfulness meditation
• Engage in relaxation exercises
• Pursue hobbies and activities that bring joy and relaxation

Emerging Treatments for Hip and Lower Back Pain

As medical research advances, new treatments for hip and lower back pain continue to emerge. While some of these approaches are still in the experimental stages, they offer hope for improved pain management in the future.

Regenerative Medicine

Regenerative medicine techniques aim to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. Some promising approaches include:

• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
• Stem cell treatments
• Growth factor injections

These treatments are designed to promote tissue repair and reduce inflammation in the affected areas.

Advanced Pain Management Technologies

Technological advancements have led to the development of new pain management devices and techniques:

• Spinal cord stimulation
• Radiofrequency ablation
• Intrathecal drug delivery systems

These approaches may offer relief for individuals who have not responded well to traditional treatments.

Targeted Drug Therapies

Research into the mechanisms of pain has led to the development of more targeted medications:

• Nerve growth factor inhibitors
• Novel anti-inflammatory agents
• Cannabinoid-based medications

These drugs aim to provide pain relief with fewer side effects compared to traditional pain medications.

As research continues, it’s important to stay informed about new treatment options and discuss them with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate approach for your specific condition.

Causes, treatment, and when to see a doctor

When pain in the lower back occurs alongside hip pain, there may be a common cause. Certain health conditions or injuries can affect the nerves in both of these areas.

These pains usually occur as a result of overuse or injury, but they can also be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. People may notice the pain on the left or right side of the body or both.

In this article, we look at possible causes of lower back and hip pain. We also discuss the various treatment options and how to relieve pain.

Share on PinterestPossible causes of lower back and hip pain include sprains, strains, and a herniated disk.

It is easy to overwork the lower back and hips because they are responsible for lifting, twisting, and moving the legs and trunk. Pains due to overuse and minor injury are common in these areas of the body.

Although these pains are common, people should not ignore them. Rest and early treatment can significantly improve a person’s outlook.

The causes are similar in males and females. The following are some of the most common causes of lower back and hip pain.

Sprains and strains are a common cause of pain around the back and hips. A sprain is a torn or overstretched ligament, while a strain is a torn or overstretched tendon or muscle.

People with sprains and strains are likely to experience discomfort that worsens with activity and gets better with rest.

Common causes of sprains and strains in this area include:

• sports injuries
• a fall or trauma
• twisting the body in an awkward way
• lifting something heavy

Playing a sport or engaging in other physical activity without warming up properly can contribute to muscle strain.

Damage to the ligaments, tendons, or muscles in the hip or lower back can cause:

• muscle pain
• muscle weakness
• tenderness
• swelling
• reduced range of motion

Treatment

People will usually find that their symptoms improve with a few days of rest.

Gentle stretching can speed up recovery. Applying a cloth-covered ice pack to the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes at a time can also help.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can reduce the pain and swelling that these muscle injuries cause.

If these treatments do not reduce symptoms, the injury may be more serious, for example, a muscle tear. In this case, a person should see their doctor.

The hip flexors are muscles that extend from the hips to the knees. They are responsible for the range of motion in the legs and hips. If these muscles are stiff and tight, often due to remaining in a seated position for too long, a person may experience back and hip pain.

Hip flexor strains, which are strains in the hip flexor muscles, can also cause sharp pain in the back and hips.

Symptoms of tight hip flexor muscles include:

• tenderness in the upper leg
• muscle spasms in the hips or thighs
• soreness in the hips and thighs

Some people may also experience a sense of weakness when trying to kick the leg or lift the knee toward the chest.

Read about 10 stretches for tight hips here.

Treatment

Physical therapy exercises and stretching can help relieve tight hip flexors and reduce discomfort. Examples include pulling the knee toward the chest or lunging one leg forward from a kneeling position to create a stretch in the hips.

Avoiding activities that can increase hip flexor tightness, such as sitting too long at a desk or wearing high heels for extended periods, can also help.

A herniated disk occurs when one of the cushioning disks between the vertebrae slips out of place. The disk can put pressure on a nearby nerve, which may cause tingling and burning pain in the lower back that extends to the hips and legs.

Older adults are prone to herniated disks because of the natural wear and tear of the spine that occurs over time. The disks also become less flexible with age.

Common causes of a herniated disk include:

• improper lifting or twisting while lifting
• a fall or trauma
• being overweight
• repetitive strain on the back
• driving for long periods
• smoking

Symptoms of a herniated disk include:

• sciatica, or a sharp, shooting pain from the buttocks down the back of one leg
• numbness in the leg or foot
• muscle weakness in the leg or foot

In severe cases, people may experience a loss of bowel and bladder function. If this occurs, they should go to the hospital or call 911 right away.

Treatment

The treatment for a herniated disk involves relieving pain and discomfort while it heals. Bed rest will usually help relieve the pain too.

Other treatment options include:

• physical therapy exercises
• taking NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation
• epidural steroid injections, which involve injecting corticosteroids into the epidural space containing the inflamed nerves

In severe cases, a doctor may recommend surgery to correct a herniated disk.

The sacroiliac (SI) joints connect the lower portion of the spine to the pelvis. If these joints move too much or too little, people may feel pain in the back and hips.

The symptoms of SI joint dysfunction include an aching lower back that makes it difficult for a person to find a comfortable position. The pain will usually worsen with physical activity, such as running or climbing stairs.

A herniated disk and arthritis can cause symptoms similar to those of SI joint dysfunction.

Treatment

Treatment options for SI joint dysfunction include:

• NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation
• physical therapy exercises to strengthen the core and pelvic muscles
• stretching and applying ice to the affected areas
• the injection of a steroid into the SI joint

A doctor may suggest that a person has corticosteroid injections to reduce spinal inflammation. In rare instances, they may recommend surgery to fuse the joints.

Osteoarthritis of the back can result in the breakdown of the protective and cushioning cartilage of the spine. This loss of cushioning can cause the spinal bones to rub together and place greater pressure on the nerves, including the nerves that go to the lower back and hips.

Arthritis in the back and hips causes joint stiffness and pain. A person may also experience weakness in the legs and hips, which can interfere with their everyday activities.

Treatment

Doctors do not have a cure for arthritis, but people can manage their symptoms using medication and lifestyle methods. These include:

• exercises that strengthen the back and hips muscles to improve flexibility and range of motion
• trying home remedies for arthritis
• alternative therapies, such as massage, acupuncture, and nutritional supplementation
• surgery, if arthritis causes significant spinal canal narrowing
• NSAIDs

Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of arthritis that primarily affects the spine, causing chronic inflammation in the spinal joints. Lower back and hip pain are often some of the first symptoms that a person with ankylosing spondylitis experiences.

Symptoms include muscle pain and stiffness that is usually worse in the morning. Other symptoms may include:

• low-grade fever
• appetite loss
• malaise, which is a general feeling of discomfort

Treatment

Doctors do not have a cure for ankylosing spondylitis, but, as with other forms of arthritis, people can manage the condition with a range of medical and at-home treatments.

Prescription medications, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers and NSAIDs, can help. Certain lifestyle measures, including doing regular physical activity, icing affected areas, and not smoking, can also be beneficial.

Paget’s disease of bone is a rare disorder that affects an estimated 1% of people in the United States, according to the American College of Rheumatology.

This condition causes a person’s bones to remodel abnormally, leading to bone softening, which can affect the pelvis, lower back, hips, and arms. A person with Paget’s disease has a higher risk of bone pain and fractures.

The symptoms of Paget’s disease include:

• hip pain
• hearing loss
• bowed legs, where the knees are wider apart than usual
• headaches
• tingling and numbness down the legs

Treatment

The treatment for Paget’s disease involves medications to reduce the likelihood of the bones breaking. Doctors usually prescribe these medicines to treat osteoporosis. In rare cases, a doctor may recommend surgery to repair bones and restore alignment.

People should seek emergency attention if they experience any of the following symptoms alongside lower back and hip pain:

• loss of bowel and bladder function
• inability to move one or both legs
• loss of sensation in one or both legs
• visible deformity in the legs or back, such as the inability to stand up straight

If a person experiences less severe symptoms that do not improve with rest and over-the-counter treatments, they should make an appointment with their doctor. A doctor can evaluate their symptoms, make a diagnosis, and recommend the most effective treatments.

When a person experiences lower back and hip pain simultaneously, there may be an underlying injury or medical condition causing both of these symptoms. In other cases, the causes may be distinct.

Lower back and hip pain can make performing daily activities difficult. If these symptoms do not resolve or suddenly get worse, a person should seek medical attention.

Regardless of the cause, early treatment helps improve the outlook of a person with back and hip pain. Without treatment, some causes of the pain can get worse and may ultimately affect a person’s mobility and quality of life.

Causes, treatment, and when to see a doctor

When pain in the lower back occurs alongside hip pain, there may be a common cause. Certain health conditions or injuries can affect the nerves in both of these areas.

These pains usually occur as a result of overuse or injury, but they can also be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. People may notice the pain on the left or right side of the body or both.

In this article, we look at possible causes of lower back and hip pain. We also discuss the various treatment options and how to relieve pain.

Share on PinterestPossible causes of lower back and hip pain include sprains, strains, and a herniated disk.

It is easy to overwork the lower back and hips because they are responsible for lifting, twisting, and moving the legs and trunk. Pains due to overuse and minor injury are common in these areas of the body.

Although these pains are common, people should not ignore them. Rest and early treatment can significantly improve a person’s outlook.

The causes are similar in males and females. The following are some of the most common causes of lower back and hip pain.

Sprains and strains are a common cause of pain around the back and hips. A sprain is a torn or overstretched ligament, while a strain is a torn or overstretched tendon or muscle.

People with sprains and strains are likely to experience discomfort that worsens with activity and gets better with rest.

Common causes of sprains and strains in this area include:

• sports injuries
• a fall or trauma
• twisting the body in an awkward way
• lifting something heavy

Playing a sport or engaging in other physical activity without warming up properly can contribute to muscle strain.

Damage to the ligaments, tendons, or muscles in the hip or lower back can cause:

• muscle pain
• muscle weakness
• tenderness
• swelling
• reduced range of motion

Treatment

People will usually find that their symptoms improve with a few days of rest.

Gentle stretching can speed up recovery. Applying a cloth-covered ice pack to the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes at a time can also help.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can reduce the pain and swelling that these muscle injuries cause.

If these treatments do not reduce symptoms, the injury may be more serious, for example, a muscle tear. In this case, a person should see their doctor.

The hip flexors are muscles that extend from the hips to the knees. They are responsible for the range of motion in the legs and hips. If these muscles are stiff and tight, often due to remaining in a seated position for too long, a person may experience back and hip pain.

Hip flexor strains, which are strains in the hip flexor muscles, can also cause sharp pain in the back and hips.

Symptoms of tight hip flexor muscles include:

• tenderness in the upper leg
• muscle spasms in the hips or thighs
• soreness in the hips and thighs

Some people may also experience a sense of weakness when trying to kick the leg or lift the knee toward the chest.

Read about 10 stretches for tight hips here.

Treatment

Physical therapy exercises and stretching can help relieve tight hip flexors and reduce discomfort. Examples include pulling the knee toward the chest or lunging one leg forward from a kneeling position to create a stretch in the hips.

Avoiding activities that can increase hip flexor tightness, such as sitting too long at a desk or wearing high heels for extended periods, can also help.

A herniated disk occurs when one of the cushioning disks between the vertebrae slips out of place. The disk can put pressure on a nearby nerve, which may cause tingling and burning pain in the lower back that extends to the hips and legs.

Older adults are prone to herniated disks because of the natural wear and tear of the spine that occurs over time. The disks also become less flexible with age.

Common causes of a herniated disk include:

• improper lifting or twisting while lifting
• a fall or trauma
• being overweight
• repetitive strain on the back
• driving for long periods
• smoking

Symptoms of a herniated disk include:

• sciatica, or a sharp, shooting pain from the buttocks down the back of one leg
• numbness in the leg or foot
• muscle weakness in the leg or foot

In severe cases, people may experience a loss of bowel and bladder function. If this occurs, they should go to the hospital or call 911 right away.

Treatment

The treatment for a herniated disk involves relieving pain and discomfort while it heals. Bed rest will usually help relieve the pain too.

Other treatment options include:

• physical therapy exercises
• taking NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation
• epidural steroid injections, which involve injecting corticosteroids into the epidural space containing the inflamed nerves

In severe cases, a doctor may recommend surgery to correct a herniated disk.

The sacroiliac (SI) joints connect the lower portion of the spine to the pelvis. If these joints move too much or too little, people may feel pain in the back and hips.

The symptoms of SI joint dysfunction include an aching lower back that makes it difficult for a person to find a comfortable position. The pain will usually worsen with physical activity, such as running or climbing stairs.

A herniated disk and arthritis can cause symptoms similar to those of SI joint dysfunction.

Treatment

Treatment options for SI joint dysfunction include:

• NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation
• physical therapy exercises to strengthen the core and pelvic muscles
• stretching and applying ice to the affected areas
• the injection of a steroid into the SI joint

A doctor may suggest that a person has corticosteroid injections to reduce spinal inflammation. In rare instances, they may recommend surgery to fuse the joints.

Osteoarthritis of the back can result in the breakdown of the protective and cushioning cartilage of the spine. This loss of cushioning can cause the spinal bones to rub together and place greater pressure on the nerves, including the nerves that go to the lower back and hips.

Arthritis in the back and hips causes joint stiffness and pain. A person may also experience weakness in the legs and hips, which can interfere with their everyday activities.

Treatment

Doctors do not have a cure for arthritis, but people can manage their symptoms using medication and lifestyle methods. These include:

• exercises that strengthen the back and hips muscles to improve flexibility and range of motion
• trying home remedies for arthritis
• alternative therapies, such as massage, acupuncture, and nutritional supplementation
• surgery, if arthritis causes significant spinal canal narrowing
• NSAIDs

Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of arthritis that primarily affects the spine, causing chronic inflammation in the spinal joints. Lower back and hip pain are often some of the first symptoms that a person with ankylosing spondylitis experiences.

Symptoms include muscle pain and stiffness that is usually worse in the morning. Other symptoms may include:

• low-grade fever
• appetite loss
• malaise, which is a general feeling of discomfort

Treatment

Doctors do not have a cure for ankylosing spondylitis, but, as with other forms of arthritis, people can manage the condition with a range of medical and at-home treatments.

Prescription medications, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers and NSAIDs, can help. Certain lifestyle measures, including doing regular physical activity, icing affected areas, and not smoking, can also be beneficial.

Paget’s disease of bone is a rare disorder that affects an estimated 1% of people in the United States, according to the American College of Rheumatology.

This condition causes a person’s bones to remodel abnormally, leading to bone softening, which can affect the pelvis, lower back, hips, and arms. A person with Paget’s disease has a higher risk of bone pain and fractures.

The symptoms of Paget’s disease include:

• hip pain
• hearing loss
• bowed legs, where the knees are wider apart than usual
• headaches
• tingling and numbness down the legs

Treatment

The treatment for Paget’s disease involves medications to reduce the likelihood of the bones breaking. Doctors usually prescribe these medicines to treat osteoporosis. In rare cases, a doctor may recommend surgery to repair bones and restore alignment.

People should seek emergency attention if they experience any of the following symptoms alongside lower back and hip pain:

• loss of bowel and bladder function
• inability to move one or both legs
• loss of sensation in one or both legs
• visible deformity in the legs or back, such as the inability to stand up straight

If a person experiences less severe symptoms that do not improve with rest and over-the-counter treatments, they should make an appointment with their doctor. A doctor can evaluate their symptoms, make a diagnosis, and recommend the most effective treatments.

When a person experiences lower back and hip pain simultaneously, there may be an underlying injury or medical condition causing both of these symptoms. In other cases, the causes may be distinct.

Lower back and hip pain can make performing daily activities difficult. If these symptoms do not resolve or suddenly get worse, a person should seek medical attention.

Regardless of the cause, early treatment helps improve the outlook of a person with back and hip pain. Without treatment, some causes of the pain can get worse and may ultimately affect a person’s mobility and quality of life.

Causes, treatment, and when to see a doctor

When pain in the lower back occurs alongside hip pain, there may be a common cause. Certain health conditions or injuries can affect the nerves in both of these areas.

These pains usually occur as a result of overuse or injury, but they can also be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. People may notice the pain on the left or right side of the body or both.

In this article, we look at possible causes of lower back and hip pain. We also discuss the various treatment options and how to relieve pain.

Share on PinterestPossible causes of lower back and hip pain include sprains, strains, and a herniated disk.

It is easy to overwork the lower back and hips because they are responsible for lifting, twisting, and moving the legs and trunk. Pains due to overuse and minor injury are common in these areas of the body.

Although these pains are common, people should not ignore them. Rest and early treatment can significantly improve a person’s outlook.

The causes are similar in males and females. The following are some of the most common causes of lower back and hip pain.

Sprains and strains are a common cause of pain around the back and hips. A sprain is a torn or overstretched ligament, while a strain is a torn or overstretched tendon or muscle.

People with sprains and strains are likely to experience discomfort that worsens with activity and gets better with rest.

Common causes of sprains and strains in this area include:

• sports injuries
• a fall or trauma
• twisting the body in an awkward way
• lifting something heavy

Playing a sport or engaging in other physical activity without warming up properly can contribute to muscle strain.

Damage to the ligaments, tendons, or muscles in the hip or lower back can cause:

• muscle pain
• muscle weakness
• tenderness
• swelling
• reduced range of motion

Treatment

People will usually find that their symptoms improve with a few days of rest.

Gentle stretching can speed up recovery. Applying a cloth-covered ice pack to the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes at a time can also help.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can reduce the pain and swelling that these muscle injuries cause.

If these treatments do not reduce symptoms, the injury may be more serious, for example, a muscle tear. In this case, a person should see their doctor.

The hip flexors are muscles that extend from the hips to the knees. They are responsible for the range of motion in the legs and hips. If these muscles are stiff and tight, often due to remaining in a seated position for too long, a person may experience back and hip pain.

Hip flexor strains, which are strains in the hip flexor muscles, can also cause sharp pain in the back and hips.

Symptoms of tight hip flexor muscles include:

• tenderness in the upper leg
• muscle spasms in the hips or thighs
• soreness in the hips and thighs

Some people may also experience a sense of weakness when trying to kick the leg or lift the knee toward the chest.

Read about 10 stretches for tight hips here.

Treatment

Physical therapy exercises and stretching can help relieve tight hip flexors and reduce discomfort. Examples include pulling the knee toward the chest or lunging one leg forward from a kneeling position to create a stretch in the hips.

Avoiding activities that can increase hip flexor tightness, such as sitting too long at a desk or wearing high heels for extended periods, can also help.

A herniated disk occurs when one of the cushioning disks between the vertebrae slips out of place. The disk can put pressure on a nearby nerve, which may cause tingling and burning pain in the lower back that extends to the hips and legs.

Older adults are prone to herniated disks because of the natural wear and tear of the spine that occurs over time. The disks also become less flexible with age.

Common causes of a herniated disk include:

• improper lifting or twisting while lifting
• a fall or trauma
• being overweight
• repetitive strain on the back
• driving for long periods
• smoking

Symptoms of a herniated disk include:

• sciatica, or a sharp, shooting pain from the buttocks down the back of one leg
• numbness in the leg or foot
• muscle weakness in the leg or foot

In severe cases, people may experience a loss of bowel and bladder function. If this occurs, they should go to the hospital or call 911 right away.

Treatment

The treatment for a herniated disk involves relieving pain and discomfort while it heals. Bed rest will usually help relieve the pain too.

Other treatment options include:

• physical therapy exercises
• taking NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation
• epidural steroid injections, which involve injecting corticosteroids into the epidural space containing the inflamed nerves

In severe cases, a doctor may recommend surgery to correct a herniated disk.

The sacroiliac (SI) joints connect the lower portion of the spine to the pelvis. If these joints move too much or too little, people may feel pain in the back and hips.

The symptoms of SI joint dysfunction include an aching lower back that makes it difficult for a person to find a comfortable position. The pain will usually worsen with physical activity, such as running or climbing stairs.

A herniated disk and arthritis can cause symptoms similar to those of SI joint dysfunction.

Treatment

Treatment options for SI joint dysfunction include:

• NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation
• physical therapy exercises to strengthen the core and pelvic muscles
• stretching and applying ice to the affected areas
• the injection of a steroid into the SI joint

A doctor may suggest that a person has corticosteroid injections to reduce spinal inflammation. In rare instances, they may recommend surgery to fuse the joints.

Osteoarthritis of the back can result in the breakdown of the protective and cushioning cartilage of the spine. This loss of cushioning can cause the spinal bones to rub together and place greater pressure on the nerves, including the nerves that go to the lower back and hips.

Arthritis in the back and hips causes joint stiffness and pain. A person may also experience weakness in the legs and hips, which can interfere with their everyday activities.

Treatment

Doctors do not have a cure for arthritis, but people can manage their symptoms using medication and lifestyle methods. These include:

• exercises that strengthen the back and hips muscles to improve flexibility and range of motion
• trying home remedies for arthritis
• alternative therapies, such as massage, acupuncture, and nutritional supplementation
• surgery, if arthritis causes significant spinal canal narrowing
• NSAIDs

Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of arthritis that primarily affects the spine, causing chronic inflammation in the spinal joints. Lower back and hip pain are often some of the first symptoms that a person with ankylosing spondylitis experiences.

Symptoms include muscle pain and stiffness that is usually worse in the morning. Other symptoms may include:

• low-grade fever
• appetite loss
• malaise, which is a general feeling of discomfort

Treatment

Doctors do not have a cure for ankylosing spondylitis, but, as with other forms of arthritis, people can manage the condition with a range of medical and at-home treatments.

Prescription medications, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers and NSAIDs, can help. Certain lifestyle measures, including doing regular physical activity, icing affected areas, and not smoking, can also be beneficial.

Paget’s disease of bone is a rare disorder that affects an estimated 1% of people in the United States, according to the American College of Rheumatology.

This condition causes a person’s bones to remodel abnormally, leading to bone softening, which can affect the pelvis, lower back, hips, and arms. A person with Paget’s disease has a higher risk of bone pain and fractures.

The symptoms of Paget’s disease include:

• hip pain
• hearing loss
• bowed legs, where the knees are wider apart than usual
• headaches
• tingling and numbness down the legs

Treatment

The treatment for Paget’s disease involves medications to reduce the likelihood of the bones breaking. Doctors usually prescribe these medicines to treat osteoporosis. In rare cases, a doctor may recommend surgery to repair bones and restore alignment.

People should seek emergency attention if they experience any of the following symptoms alongside lower back and hip pain:

• loss of bowel and bladder function
• inability to move one or both legs
• loss of sensation in one or both legs
• visible deformity in the legs or back, such as the inability to stand up straight

If a person experiences less severe symptoms that do not improve with rest and over-the-counter treatments, they should make an appointment with their doctor. A doctor can evaluate their symptoms, make a diagnosis, and recommend the most effective treatments.

When a person experiences lower back and hip pain simultaneously, there may be an underlying injury or medical condition causing both of these symptoms. In other cases, the causes may be distinct.

Lower back and hip pain can make performing daily activities difficult. If these symptoms do not resolve or suddenly get worse, a person should seek medical attention.

Regardless of the cause, early treatment helps improve the outlook of a person with back and hip pain. Without treatment, some causes of the pain can get worse and may ultimately affect a person’s mobility and quality of life.

Causes, treatment, and when to see a doctor

When pain in the lower back occurs alongside hip pain, there may be a common cause. Certain health conditions or injuries can affect the nerves in both of these areas.

These pains usually occur as a result of overuse or injury, but they can also be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. People may notice the pain on the left or right side of the body or both.

In this article, we look at possible causes of lower back and hip pain. We also discuss the various treatment options and how to relieve pain.

Share on PinterestPossible causes of lower back and hip pain include sprains, strains, and a herniated disk.

It is easy to overwork the lower back and hips because they are responsible for lifting, twisting, and moving the legs and trunk. Pains due to overuse and minor injury are common in these areas of the body.

Although these pains are common, people should not ignore them. Rest and early treatment can significantly improve a person’s outlook.

The causes are similar in males and females. The following are some of the most common causes of lower back and hip pain.

Sprains and strains are a common cause of pain around the back and hips. A sprain is a torn or overstretched ligament, while a strain is a torn or overstretched tendon or muscle.

People with sprains and strains are likely to experience discomfort that worsens with activity and gets better with rest.

Common causes of sprains and strains in this area include:

• sports injuries
• a fall or trauma
• twisting the body in an awkward way
• lifting something heavy

Playing a sport or engaging in other physical activity without warming up properly can contribute to muscle strain.

Damage to the ligaments, tendons, or muscles in the hip or lower back can cause:

• muscle pain
• muscle weakness
• tenderness
• swelling
• reduced range of motion

Treatment

People will usually find that their symptoms improve with a few days of rest.

Gentle stretching can speed up recovery. Applying a cloth-covered ice pack to the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes at a time can also help.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can reduce the pain and swelling that these muscle injuries cause.

If these treatments do not reduce symptoms, the injury may be more serious, for example, a muscle tear. In this case, a person should see their doctor.

The hip flexors are muscles that extend from the hips to the knees. They are responsible for the range of motion in the legs and hips. If these muscles are stiff and tight, often due to remaining in a seated position for too long, a person may experience back and hip pain.

Hip flexor strains, which are strains in the hip flexor muscles, can also cause sharp pain in the back and hips.

Symptoms of tight hip flexor muscles include:

• tenderness in the upper leg
• muscle spasms in the hips or thighs
• soreness in the hips and thighs

Some people may also experience a sense of weakness when trying to kick the leg or lift the knee toward the chest.

Read about 10 stretches for tight hips here.

Treatment

Physical therapy exercises and stretching can help relieve tight hip flexors and reduce discomfort. Examples include pulling the knee toward the chest or lunging one leg forward from a kneeling position to create a stretch in the hips.

Avoiding activities that can increase hip flexor tightness, such as sitting too long at a desk or wearing high heels for extended periods, can also help.

A herniated disk occurs when one of the cushioning disks between the vertebrae slips out of place. The disk can put pressure on a nearby nerve, which may cause tingling and burning pain in the lower back that extends to the hips and legs.

Older adults are prone to herniated disks because of the natural wear and tear of the spine that occurs over time. The disks also become less flexible with age.

Common causes of a herniated disk include:

• improper lifting or twisting while lifting
• a fall or trauma
• being overweight
• repetitive strain on the back
• driving for long periods
• smoking

Symptoms of a herniated disk include:

• sciatica, or a sharp, shooting pain from the buttocks down the back of one leg
• numbness in the leg or foot
• muscle weakness in the leg or foot

In severe cases, people may experience a loss of bowel and bladder function. If this occurs, they should go to the hospital or call 911 right away.

Treatment

The treatment for a herniated disk involves relieving pain and discomfort while it heals. Bed rest will usually help relieve the pain too.

Other treatment options include:

• physical therapy exercises
• taking NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation
• epidural steroid injections, which involve injecting corticosteroids into the epidural space containing the inflamed nerves

In severe cases, a doctor may recommend surgery to correct a herniated disk.

The sacroiliac (SI) joints connect the lower portion of the spine to the pelvis. If these joints move too much or too little, people may feel pain in the back and hips.

The symptoms of SI joint dysfunction include an aching lower back that makes it difficult for a person to find a comfortable position. The pain will usually worsen with physical activity, such as running or climbing stairs.

A herniated disk and arthritis can cause symptoms similar to those of SI joint dysfunction.

Treatment

Treatment options for SI joint dysfunction include:

• NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation
• physical therapy exercises to strengthen the core and pelvic muscles
• stretching and applying ice to the affected areas
• the injection of a steroid into the SI joint

A doctor may suggest that a person has corticosteroid injections to reduce spinal inflammation. In rare instances, they may recommend surgery to fuse the joints.

Osteoarthritis of the back can result in the breakdown of the protective and cushioning cartilage of the spine. This loss of cushioning can cause the spinal bones to rub together and place greater pressure on the nerves, including the nerves that go to the lower back and hips.

Arthritis in the back and hips causes joint stiffness and pain. A person may also experience weakness in the legs and hips, which can interfere with their everyday activities.

Treatment

Doctors do not have a cure for arthritis, but people can manage their symptoms using medication and lifestyle methods. These include:

• exercises that strengthen the back and hips muscles to improve flexibility and range of motion
• trying home remedies for arthritis
• alternative therapies, such as massage, acupuncture, and nutritional supplementation
• surgery, if arthritis causes significant spinal canal narrowing
• NSAIDs

Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of arthritis that primarily affects the spine, causing chronic inflammation in the spinal joints. Lower back and hip pain are often some of the first symptoms that a person with ankylosing spondylitis experiences.

Symptoms include muscle pain and stiffness that is usually worse in the morning. Other symptoms may include:

• low-grade fever
• appetite loss
• malaise, which is a general feeling of discomfort

Treatment

Doctors do not have a cure for ankylosing spondylitis, but, as with other forms of arthritis, people can manage the condition with a range of medical and at-home treatments.

Prescription medications, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers and NSAIDs, can help. Certain lifestyle measures, including doing regular physical activity, icing affected areas, and not smoking, can also be beneficial.

Paget’s disease of bone is a rare disorder that affects an estimated 1% of people in the United States, according to the American College of Rheumatology.

This condition causes a person’s bones to remodel abnormally, leading to bone softening, which can affect the pelvis, lower back, hips, and arms. A person with Paget’s disease has a higher risk of bone pain and fractures.

The symptoms of Paget’s disease include:

• hip pain
• hearing loss
• bowed legs, where the knees are wider apart than usual
• headaches
• tingling and numbness down the legs

Treatment

The treatment for Paget’s disease involves medications to reduce the likelihood of the bones breaking. Doctors usually prescribe these medicines to treat osteoporosis. In rare cases, a doctor may recommend surgery to repair bones and restore alignment.

People should seek emergency attention if they experience any of the following symptoms alongside lower back and hip pain:

• loss of bowel and bladder function
• inability to move one or both legs
• loss of sensation in one or both legs
• visible deformity in the legs or back, such as the inability to stand up straight

If a person experiences less severe symptoms that do not improve with rest and over-the-counter treatments, they should make an appointment with their doctor. A doctor can evaluate their symptoms, make a diagnosis, and recommend the most effective treatments.

When a person experiences lower back and hip pain simultaneously, there may be an underlying injury or medical condition causing both of these symptoms. In other cases, the causes may be distinct.

Lower back and hip pain can make performing daily activities difficult. If these symptoms do not resolve or suddenly get worse, a person should seek medical attention.

Regardless of the cause, early treatment helps improve the outlook of a person with back and hip pain. Without treatment, some causes of the pain can get worse and may ultimately affect a person’s mobility and quality of life.

5 Common Causes of Hip Pain in Women

Among the most common causes of hip pain in women are:

1. Arthritis Chronic hip pain in women is often due to arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, the wear-and-tear kind that affects many people as they age. “The ball-and-socket joint starts to wear out,” Siegrist says. Arthritis pain is often felt in the front of your thigh or in the groin, because of stiffness or swelling in the joint.

2. Hip fractures Hip fractures are common in older women, especially those with osteoporosis (decreased bone density). Symptoms of a hip fracture include pain when you straighten, lift, or stand on your leg. Also, the toes on your injured side will appear to turn out, a sign that can aid your doctor’s preliminary diagnosis.

3. Tendinitis and bursitis Many tendons around the hip connect the muscles to the joint. These tendons can easily become inflamed if you overuse them or participate in strenuous activities. One of the most common causes of tendinitis at the hip joint, especially in runners, is iliotibial band syndrome — the iliotibial band is the thick span of tissue that runs from the outer rim of your pelvis to the outside of your knee.

RELATED: How You Can Eat to Beat Back Pain

Another common cause of hip pain in women is bursitis, says Marc Philippon, MD, an orthopedic surgeon in Vail, Colorado. Fluid-filled sacs called bursae cushion the bony part of the hip that is close to the surface. Like the tendons, these sacs can become inflamed from irritation or overuse and cause pain whenever you move the hip joint.

4. Hernia In the groin area, femoral and inguinal hernias — sometimes referred to as sports hernias — can cause anterior (frontal) hip pain in women. Pregnant women can be susceptible to inguinal hernias because of the added pressure on the wall of their abdomen.

5. Gynecological and back issues “Hip pain in women can have gynecological causes,” Siegrist says. “It’s important not to just assume that the pain is caused by arthritis, bursitis, or tendinitis. Depending on your age and other health issues, the pain in your hip could be coming from some other system.”

Endometriosis (when tissue similar to the uterus lining tissue grows outside the uterus) can cause pelvic tenderness, which some women describe as hip pain. Pain from the back and spine also can be felt around the buttocks and hip, Siegrist says. Sciatica, a pinched nerve, typically affects one side of the body and can cause pain in the back of the right or left hip — the pain from sciatica can start in your lower back and travel down to your buttocks and legs.

RELATED: What Is Bowel Endometriosis?

Treatment Options for Hip Pain

Treatment for hip pain depends on the diagnosis, but pain that’s caused by overuse or sports injuries is often treated with heat, rest, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication. To prevent injuries, it is important to stretch before exercising and wear appropriate clothing, especially good shoes when running, Dr. Philippon says.

If certain activities or overuse are causing hip pain, stop those that aggravate the discomfort and talk to your doctor. Excess weight can put pressure on the hip joint, so losing the pounds can provide relief and help you avoid further problems. Some causes of hip pain, such as fractures or hernias, may need surgical repairs. If your hip pain persists, talk to your doctor about the possible causes and treatments.

That Hip Pain Could Actually Be a Sciatica Problem: Healthy Life Family Medicine: Family Medicine Clinic

Your hips are incredibly active joints and no strangers to the occasional ache and pain, especially as you get older. But searing pain in one of your hips may have nothing to do with your hip at all, but a pinched nerve root in your lower back.

At Healthy Life Family Medicine in Goodyear, Arizona, Dr. John Monroe understands the many conditions that can lead to radiating pain. One of the biggest culprits in this regard is sciatica, which develops when certain nerve roots in your lower back are irritated or compressed, causing symptoms to travel down your sciatic nerve.

Here’s a look at how sciatica pain develops and why your hip pain may be a result of a problem in your lower back.

Understanding sciatica

The first thing to understand is that sciatica isn’t a condition, but a symptom of a problem that’s connected to your sciatic nerve. This nerve is the longest in your body and begins in your lower spine, where five nerve roots come together to form your sciatic nerve, which splits and travels down either side of your buttocks, hips, and legs.

When any of the nerve roots are irritated in your lower back, the symptoms can radiate out along the sciatic nerve, creating symptoms that run down your lower extremities, typically only on one side.

The hallmarks of sciatica pain include:

• Searing pain in your lower back that can come and go with certain movements
• Pain that radiates down one side of your buttocks, hips, and legs
• Dull pain in your back, hips, and buttocks
• Numbness or tingling anywhere along the nerve
• Weakness in your leg

The characteristics of your pain can vary, depending upon which nerve root is compressed or pinched. For example, if you’re experiencing pain in your foot, this is likely caused by a compressed nerve near your L5 vertebra. 

In most cases, sciatic pain stems from a herniated or bulging disc, but it can also develop because of:

• Spinal stenosis
• Spondylolisthesis
• Tumors
• Bone growths

Whatever the cause, the end result can leave you with moderate-to-severe pain that you feel in your back, hips, buttocks, and leg.

So, if you’re experiencing pain in your hip, and you haven’t had any problems with the joint before, the problem may lie in your lower back.

The indirect results of nerve compression

Another reason you may be feeling pain in one of your hips is that when you have a pinched nerve in your back that affects one side of your lower body, you tend to favor that side. The pain may alter the way you move, which can place added stress on your already hard-working hips.

So, if your hip pain is more of a dull ache and you’re also experiencing some of the more classic signs of sciatica, the two are likely related.

Treating sciatica pain

The good news is that we have plenty of options for quickly resolving your sciatic and hip pain. Dr. Monroe can administer a corticosteroid injection into the nerve root to quiet the pain signals and reduce the inflammation, which should bring you relief. Also, stretching and physical therapy can go a long way toward relieving the pressure on your nerve roots.

Whether your hip pain is a result of a problem in your sciatic nerve or something else, we can help you find a solution and put an end to your discomfort. Simply contact us at Healthy Life Family Medicine to set up an appointment.

Is the Pain Coming From Your Hip or Back?

Often people go to the doctor seeking help for hip pain. Sometimes, people try to treat it themselves. They are convinced there is something wrong with their hip and the treatments begin. However, one thing is for sure, hip pain is not always as it appears. Hip pain can be a result of a problem in the hip joint itself. However, it can also be a result of a back problem or a soft tissue problem around the hip region.

Obtaining an accurate diagnosis is the first step to resuming activities and living an active lifestyle. Let’s discuss the reasons for confusion and see if we can realize the causes and treatments for both hip and back pain. Some of a patient’s misunderstanding about the origin of the pain is due to not understanding hip and back anatomy. Sounds odd but it’s true. The hip joint lies just behind the groin area on each side of the body. At the same time, the spine runs from the base of the skull to the tip of the tailbone. The lumbar spine contains specific nerves that can influence the feelings in the region around the hip area.

Pain Originating in the Hip

If the problem originates in the hip joint itself, common symptoms include groin pain on the affected side, and sometimes down the inner aspect of the thigh in the front of the leg. This pain can move to the knee and sometimes feels like a knee problem instead of a hip problem. Walking worsens the pain and with continued activity, the pain increases. Rest relieves it; however, when hip arthritis becomes severe, you may have pain most of the time. Minimal activity such as slight movements while in bed can worsen the pain. Other conditions such as advanced congenital hip dysplasia or avascular necrosis of the hip can cause these symptoms as well.

When the pain originates in the hip from arthritis, motion of the hip is often limited. This limitation is often realized when attempting to get out of a chair or bed and standing up. Contrary to hip pain, pain coming from the back may worsen when sitting or lying down, depending on the origin of the back pain itself.

Sometimes pain on the side of the hip is a result of bursitis. A weak abductor muscle, a leg length discrepancy, overuse, and an underlying early degenerating hip joint can cause bursitis. At times, the origin cannot be determined. Symptoms include pain on the side of the hip with prolonged walking, side lying in bed or when rising from a chair or similar types of movement.

Pain Originating in the Back

Low back pain commonly is experienced in the back itself. However, due to the complexity of the spinal cord and associated nerves being an intricate part of the low back, pain may and frequently can radiate or travel further down the course of the nerves. This is similar to striking your “funny bone” in the elbow and feeling the sensation in the hand below the elbow.

Although some of us are familiar with a pinched nerve, which is associated with sciatic-like pain in the leg, irritation or inflammation of nerves in the low back region can also cause a sensation in the upper leg or hip region. It is important to realize there are many things that can go wrong in the spine. Remember, sciatica is not a diagnosis but, instead, a symptom of an underlying problem. It is possible to feel back-related pain in the hip region and upper leg as well. It depends on the nerves involved and ultimately the actual diagnosis. Back pain or hip pain is not a diagnosis but simply an explanation of the area of pain. Symptoms are correlated with physical examination and confirmed through x-rays and similar tests.

Some back pain is caused from a “ruptured disc”. This pain is often experienced in the gluteal region of the body. Many people call this the “hip” region although it is not usually indicative of a hip joint problem. This is actually behind the hip, an important anatomic thought when considering hip pain, rather than in the hip itself. A condition related to degeneration of the lower back creating narrowing of the spinal canal or adjacent areas is called spinal stenosis and frequently causes pain in the hip region. The history of stenosis has to be compared with hip joint pain. Spinal stenosis can cause leg pain while walking as well as fatigue in the legs even when rising from a chair. Stenosis pain is relieved with sitting and will re-occur when walking is resumed.

There are differences in symptoms between spinal stenosis pain and herniated or ruptured disc pain. A herniated disc often is more painful when sitting and relieved by standing or walking (opposite of stenosis). A herniated disc can cause sciatica (so can stenosis) and can be a result of degenerative changes in the disc. Sciatica will commonly radiate or travel down the backside of the thigh, into the calf and sometimes the foot itself.>

Getting an Accurate Diagnosis

A thorough history and physical examination is a good start when sorting out symptoms. X-rays will attest to specific bony/cartilage changes but x-rays don’t always correlate with the pain. It is possible to have little pain and much damage on the x-rays or visa versa. It is important to treat the patient, not the x-rays alone. Secondly, x-rays of the back can reveal degeneration of the discs or small joints in the spine but the person does well. Contrary, the back may look degenerative and because of the subsequent bone spurring and symptoms as arthritis progresses, it is important to obtain an MRI to confirm nerve impingements that are suspected. X-rays alone will not show nerve impingement. As you can see, it is important to undergo the history and physical examination and tests that can confirm your diagnosis before treatment begins.

Treatment

Both types of problems are frequently helped by anti-inflammatory medications particularly in mild to moderate situations. Some types of analgesics can be used intermittently as well. It’s important to realize that both problems can be helped significantly by weight loss, proper forms of exercise and conditioning. In fact, back pain can become chronic without a commitment to the appropriate exercises necessary to stabilize and strengthen the spine. Epidural blocks (corticosteroids are injected into the canal of the low back to reduce inflammation and pain) can help several types of back disorders. Using a cane when walking can help both hip and back pain.

Surgery, whether a hip replacement for hip arthritis or back surgery due to a herniated disc, vertebral disorders or spinal stenosis, is a last resort for the treatment of the pain. Both surgery of the hip and the back are quite successful. Full evaluation is necessary and conservative measures are always tried first.

The question of pain in the hip region is not always a simple one and frequently involves specialized evaluation. Once the diagnosis is determined, options are many and should be discussed with you prior to instituting a treatment plan. The purpose of this article is to help to better assess pain, whether it’s coming from the back or the hip itself. Remember, there are many options for treatment. Diagnosis is the first step to successful treatment.

90,000 ⚡ What is the reason for lower back pain radiating to the leg ➡ origin and treatment methods ⚕

⚡ One of the most common problems is severe pain below the lower back, which radiates to the leg and hip. This symptom most often occurs after the age of 35. Can be especially frustrating when you move, walk, and even when you sleep❗

There is a strong connection between what you feel in your lower extremities and what happens in your lumbar spine, pelvis and hips. Numbness, weakness and tingling in the legs can cause pain emanating from the lumbar spine or pelvis.

Why does my back pain radiate to my leg?

You should not start self-treatment without understanding what the causes of back pain are. It can be caused by an injured part of the spine, swelling or swelling that puts pressure on the nerve endings.

Painful sensations occur in the area of ​​the thigh, buttocks, lower leg and even the foot – it depends on which nerve endings are being impaired.

The main pathological conditions include :

• osteochondrosis, in which the wear of the intervertebral disc progresses;
• lumboischialgia, in which pain occurs from overloading the muscles of the lumbar region;
• spondyloarthrosis in the facet joints of the spine;
• sciatica, which is a lesion of the sciatic nerve;
• lumbarization, characterized by an increase in the number of lumbar vertebrae;
• sacralization, in which the 5th lumbar vertebra fusions with the sacrum.

Also, the problem may arise against the background of intervertebral hernia, stenosis of the spinal canal, with diseases of internal organs that are located at the same level with the lower back . To understand what causes such symptoms – diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, urinary tract, kidneys, gynecological inflammation, swelling, ectopic pregnancy or problems with the spine, requires diagnosis .

Pain symptoms

The pain is sharp, aching, pulling or another type, aggravated by certain body positions or movements.

Based on the signs, the following can be assumed:

1) Drawing pain in the lower back on the right radiates to the leg, upper part and thigh. Often occurs with disc protrusion, intervertebral hernias of the lumbar spine, spinal cord tumors, inflammation of the gluteal muscles, inflammation of the sciatic nerve.

2) Severe lower back pain radiates to the legs and back of the foot, sometimes affecting the entire back of the leg and the lumbosacral back. Occurs against the background of spasm of the piriformis muscle at the point of exit of the sciatic nerve. With a strong compression of the sciatic nerve, inflammation of the sciatica develops and atrophy of the gluteus muscle on one side is possible.

3) Sharp pain in the lower back on the left radiates to the leg, acute pain in the lower back radiates to the outer part of the thigh. Occurs with intervertebral hernia, tunnel syndrome, compression of the external skin nerve of the thigh (Meralgia). It is accompanied by numbness, burning sensation, goose bumps, tingling sensation, weakness of the thigh muscles, pathologies of the hip joint.

4) Pain in the lower back, radiating to the front surface of the legs and thigh. Occurs against the background of inflammation of the femoral nerve, intervertebral hernias, after surgery on the lower abdomen, limitation of mobility. Often accompanied by loss of knee reflexes, sensitivity, muscle weakness, difficulty in movement.

5) Pain in the lumbar spine radiates to the leg and knee. Occurs against the background of orthopedic disorders of the hip joint, oncological diseases of the genital organs in women, diseases of the prostate gland in men, fractures of the pelvic bone, neuralgia.

How to determine the cause of pain radiating to the leg

The first stage – you need to visit a doctor if you need to undergo a diagnosis and get a correct diagnosis, establish the cause of this symptom and only then start treatment.

Most of these pains are caused by diseases of the musculoskeletal system , especially degenerative lesions of the spinal discs. But do not forget about other equally dangerous diseases and pathological processes that cause this symptom.Wherever the pain manifests itself, in the lower back, in the back, in the leg – is not a normal and not a natural state of a person and it must be treated .

Methods for the treatment of back pain

When treating low back pain, which radiates to the leg, it is imperative to take into account the diagnostic conclusions of examinations, which only a doctor can prescribe and determine, after a complete history is taken: ultrasound, MRI, CT and other diagnostic methods.

Drug treatment is used to eliminate pain.Physiotherapy exercises and training on simulators help to deal with problems of the musculoskeletal system.

After completing the course, it is imperative to maintain physical activity, adhere to a correct lifestyle. It is necessary to control body weight and include foods necessary in the diet to avoid pathological processes in the body. The attending physician will tell you more about this.

Prevention of the development of diseases of the spine

This is the best way to prevent and stop the development of diseases of the spine.

• physical activity : exercise in sufficient volume, at least 3 hours a week, which provides muscle support;
• proper nutrition : balanced nutrition with the presence of foods containing minerals and vitamins (calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, B vitamins, etc.), if your food does not contain a sufficient level of vitamins, use vitamin complexes;
• smoking : try to break the bad habit, as smoking leads to bone loss;
• alcohol : excessive alcohol consumption affects the absorption of calcium by the body, insufficient calcium affects the development of osteoporosis;
• body weight control : watch your weight, relieve your spine and legs from carrying weights in the form of your weight;
• reception of chondroprotectors : protection of intervertebral discs from destruction of cartilaginous tissue (prescribed only by a doctor).

And probably the most important thing, be sure to bring any treatment of injuries, diseases to the end, follow the prescriptions and recommendations of doctors and be healthy!

It will take you 5 minutes to get rid of acute lower back pain

Low back pain can appear for many reasons. Sometimes it indicates serious disturbances in the body, and sometimes physical overstrain, sudden movement, heavy lifting or a long stay in an uncomfortable position become the causes of pain.If you find yourself in just such a situation and your body is pierced by unbearable pain that radiates from the lumbar region to the leg, then proper physical activity will help you better than any medication.

Bright Side has compiled a few simple exercises recommended by doctors that will ease the pain and help you get back to normal.

It is important to remember

• The purpose of the training is to relieve the spasm of the piriformis muscle, which has compressed the sciatic nerve.
• The pace of the exercise is slow.Do not overexert yourself. In case of severe pain, be sure to see a doctor.
• The execution time for each pose is 30 seconds.

1.

Starting position – sitting on a chair, back straight, legs bent at the knees form a right angle. Place the leg into which the pain is radiating on the other so that it is parallel to the floor. Place your hands on the calf of the affected leg and, using it as a support, slowly bend forward as low as you can. Lower your arms down and hold this position for 30 seconds.Then slowly return to the starting position and, having changed legs, perform it again.

2.

Starting position – lying on your back, legs straightened. Lift the affected leg perpendicular to the floor and bend it at the knee. Place one hand on your knee and grab your ankle with the other. Try not to change the position of the ankle, and direct the knee to the heel of the other leg. When you feel muscle tension, hold this position for 30 seconds and, changing legs, repeat the exercise.

3.

Starting position – lying on your back, legs straightened. Move the affected leg over the other leg so that the foot is at the knee. Place your opposite hand on your knee and gently push it forward towards your solar plexus. When you feel that the muscle is tense, hold this position for 30 seconds. Change legs and do the exercise again.

4.

Starting position – lying on your back, legs straightened.Cross your legs so that the patient is on top. Clasp your legs with your hands and with their help try to reach the knee of the sore leg to the shoulder of the same side of the body. You already know what to do next. If you feel tension in the muscles, hold this position for 30 seconds. Relax and repeat the exercise again, changing legs.

Have you experienced lower back pain? What helped you cope with it?

Illustrator Anna Syrovatkina specially for Bright Side

Pinching of the sciatic nerve: symptoms | Health Blog

Pinched nerve – what is it?

Pinching can occur on any nerve in our body.When altered surrounding tissue (inflammation, tumors, etc.) presses on the nerve endings, they constantly transmit painful sensations. Even if the nerve is healthy, the patient will feel severe pain. And with a long absence of treatment, the nerve often becomes inflamed, which leads to constant unbearable pain.

The sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the human body, is formed from the fusion of several roots L4-S3 in the lower back – the lumbosacral spine, then goes to the buttock, along the back of the thigh and to the lower leg.Therefore, damage even in one area will lead to pain in the entire limb. And with an advanced disease, sensitivity and mobility begin to be lost, which is especially unpleasant if both legs are affected.

Possible causes of pinching

The nerve can be affected at any level of its location. This can happen for many reasons:

• Herniated discs are the most common cause. Even a slight deformation of the annulus fibrosus can pinch the nerve roots that form the sciatic nerve;
• Osteochondrosis, curvature of the spine, marginal bone growths of the vertebral bodies;
• Displacement of the vertebrae (listez) after back injuries and as a result of degenerative processes;
• Neoplasms of the spine, small pelvis, gluteal region;
• Inflammation of the pelvic organs;
• Thrombosis of nearby vessels;
• Muscle inflammation and edema: after hypothermia, trauma, excessive physical exertion;
• Piriformis syndrome;
• Pregnancy in which the uterus with the fetus presses too hard on adjacent tissues.

The disease can develop faster due to obesity and lack of minerals and against the background of endocrine disorders such as diabetes mellitus. In addition, the sciatic nerve can be damaged after previous infections and poisoning.

Symptoms of a pinched sciatic nerve

The main symptom of sciatic nerve damage will be pain. At this stage, the most difficult thing is to correctly determine the cause of the disease, but this must be done: if it is started, then the treatment and rehabilitation will take much longer.

What indicates the initial stage of pinching?

• Drawing or burning pain that affects only part of the lower back, buttocks, back of the thigh;
• Feeling creepy;
• Increased discomfort when changing position, laughing, coughing, sudden movements.
• Discomfort and pain when sitting and leaning forward.

In the early stages of the disease, you are unlikely to pay attention to these symptoms.They will be subtle, the pain will subside from time to time. Goose bumps and numbness in the legs can be attributed to an uncomfortable position.

A completely different nature of the symptoms appears at later stages. It is at this moment that most patients notice discomfort with prolonged immobility and periodic sharp pain in the leg. If you do not start to fight the disease at this time, then the symptoms will appear more serious:

• Sensation of intense burning of the skin and deep layers of the muscles of the back of the leg,
• Severe limitation of the mobility of the leg and lower back,
• Weakness of the affected leg,
• In some cases, patients note redness or blanching of the leg area with an increase or vice versa with a decrease in sweating in this area …

In addition, if the pinching caused another disease, its symptoms will also show up to the full. That is why the disease often goes unnoticed: against the background of a hernia or fracture, numbness and redness of the legs seem to be just another symptom, not serious and not worthy of attention.

What can you do during an illness attack?

If the pinching pain comes on suddenly, you can relieve your condition with home therapy:

• Choose a body position in which the pain syndrome will be the least pronounced, usually on the back or on a healthy side with a straight leg in which pain is felt.
• Limit physical activity.
• Analgesics can be taken: in the form of tablets or rubbing ointment (in the absence of contraindications).

Seek emergency medical attention for unbearable pain.

Remember that pinching cannot be cured at home: even if the symptom is stopped, the disease will not disappear anywhere. So after relieving the exacerbation, you will have to visit a neurologist.

What should not be done if pinching worsens?

It is not recommended to actively move: in case of severe pain, it is necessary to limit physical activity as much as possible.If there is a suspicion of inflammation, then neither warm nor rub the sore spot. Try to sleep on a hard mattress on your side during this time. And, of course, you shouldn’t take prescription medications and anti-inflammatories without a doctor’s recommendation.

Diagnostics and treatment

To make a diagnosis, a neurologist requires, in addition to a visual examination, a more complete examination. It may include:

• X-ray of the lower back and pelvic bones,
• Ultrasound of the pelvic organs,
• Computer or magnetic resonance imaging of the affected area,
• General and biochemical blood test.

With their help, the doctor will be able to establish the cause of the pinching, examine the affected area in all details, and learn about the presence of an inflammatory process. If necessary, he can prescribe an ultrasound scan of the affected area and ENMG – a study of nerves using responses to electrical impulses. This will help you understand where exactly the nerve is affected.

For treatment, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, a complex of B vitamins are used. With unbearable pain that is not relieved by complex treatment, you can put a blockade.Physiotherapy and exercise therapy have proven themselves very well.

If necessary, the doctor can prescribe additional vitamin complexes, pain relievers, antioxidants. And in parallel with the removal of the symptoms of pinching, there will be a fight against the disease that caused it. This way you can overcome the disease much faster and regain your well-being without the threat of relapse.

90,000 Hip pains – a side effect of evolution?

December 27, 2016

Photo author, Science Photo Library

Photo caption,

Skeleton bones aged 3.2 million years

Scientists from the University of Oxford claim that pain in the shoulders, hips and knees can be a side effect of evolution.

And if current trends continue, people may suffer even more from these pains in the future, researchers predict.

They studied 300 samples of bones from different species, spanning 400 million years, to understand how bones gradually changed over the millennia.

Changes began to appear as soon as a person began to move on two legs.

Other researchers have also noticed similar evolutionary quirks in humans. So, in people who often have lower back pain, the spine is more similar in structure to the spine of our closest relatives – chimpanzees.

“Strange Composition”

Paul Munk, who headed research in the Department of Orthopedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Research at Nuffield College, wanted to find out why patients come to his clinic with such similar orthopedic problems.

“Patients often come to clinics with similar complaints – shoulder pain when raising their arms above their head, pain in the kneecap, arthritis of the hip joint, and in young people, joints often pop out,” says Munk.“We wondered how it happened that a modern person has such a strange – unsuccessful – composition of bones and joints, because of which so many problems arise.”

“And then we realized that in order to get an answer, we must” twist back “our evolution,” explains the scientist.

A team of scientists using computed tomography examined 300 ancient specimens located in the Natural History Museum in London, as well as in Oxford and the Smithsonian Institution in Washington.

After collecting the data, they created a library of three-dimensional models and traced the changes in the shape of individual bones over millions of years.

Photo caption,

Femur changes over time

As the human species evolved from four-legged to erect, the neck of the femur, for example, became wider to support the extra weight, scientists say.

However, studies show that the thicker the femoral neck, the more likely it is to develop arthritis.

Scientists say this is one of the possible reasons why people are so often prone to hip pain.

Then the team of scientists also used the collected data to project the possible shape of human bones after 4000 years, although they admit there are many unknown factors that cannot be accounted for.

Paul Munk explains: “What’s interesting is that if we try to carry these trends into the future, we’ll get an even wider neck and a greater risk of arthritis.”

For the shoulder, scientists have found that the natural distance between bones, through which tendons and blood vessels pass, decreases over time.

The narrowing of this space makes it difficult for the tendons to move, which may be why some people experience pain when they stretch their arms up, the researchers suggest.

Based on these predictions, the researchers suggest that joints used as prostheses will need to be redesigned in the future to accommodate changing shapes.

But, the scientists say, things are not so bad: the right physical therapy and maintaining good posture can help to combat the flaws in our design.

Pain in the sacrum and lower back can be a symptom of damage to internal organs!

Diseases of the urinary system (cystitis, pyelonephritis, and especially urolithiasis) are most often manifested by pain in the lower back. The pain can be acute.

People with gastric ulcer and duodenal ulcer in 75% of cases are concerned about pain in the lumbar region. Another disease of the gastrointestinal tract, which can cause back pain, is acute pancreatitis.The pain is girdle in nature, localized in the area of ​​the right or left hypochondrium, radiating to the back.

Sometimes back pain radiating to the lower back occurs in acute appendicitis. This is mainly the case when the appendix (appendix) is located behind the cecum. Of course, this is just one of the complaints, and the main symptoms are fever, irritation of the peritoneum, and upset stools.

In diseases of the female genital organs, along with pain in the lower abdomen, pain in the sacro-lumbar spine may occur.Moreover, it can bother you periodically during menstruation, during sexual intercourse, or be prolonged and become chronic.

In most cases with low back pain, it makes sense to do an ultrasound of the pelvic organs. For example, painful sensations can be provoked by masses of the ovaries located behind the uterus.

In uterine fibroids, the nature and place of pain depend on the location of the node in the uterus, its size, and are caused by stretching of the peritoneum, with pressure from the nerve plexuses of the small pelvis.Often, severe and prolonged pain in uterine fibroids is associated with its rapid growth. Acute pain may indicate a violation of the blood supply to the myomatous node and requires emergency medical attention.

With the prolapse of the internal genital organs, the patients are worried about the pulling pain in the lumbosacral region, which increases with walking, physical exertion and lifting weights. The mechanism of pain in this pathology is associated with a violation of the anatomical location of the pelvic organs, which leads to a violation of the venous and lymphatic outflow.

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90,000 octeoxondrosis, protrusion, hernia? How to treat?

08.01.2019

According to statistics, half of the world’s population has back problems and each of us at least once in our life has experienced all the delights of pain in the neck or lower back.Back pain has a wide variety of origins. One of the most insidious causes of spinal pain is a herniated disc. Severe pain is the first manifestation of a hernia, which makes a person begin to worry about their health. The pain can be constant or come on unexpectedly and inexplicably, for example, when sneezing or simple and habitual movement. About how to get rid of a hernia and become a healthy person, how to prevent serious consequences of the disease, about where the boundaries of conservative treatment are and when an operation is needed, we asked Vadim Anatolyevich Zotov, a neurosurgeon at the Reaviz Multidisciplinary Clinic.

What is a herniated disc and why does it appear?

– The herd of the intervertebral disc is an illness in which part of the disc is protruding into the spinal canal with compression of the spinal structures. The main reasons for the appearance of intervertebral hernias are: overweight and a sedentary lifestyle, excessive physical exertion, poor posture and past injuries of the spine. Even ordinary osteochondrosis increases the risk of herniated discs.There are factors associated with the characteristics of the profession. At risk are athletes, truck drivers, workers in production, whose activities are associated with prolonged vibration exposure.

How to notice the signs of a hernia in time? When should a person sound the alarm?

– The most common signs of a hernia include back pain, followed by leg pain, and lower back pain may decrease or disappear. The pain is relieved by flexing the leg at the hip or knee, and worse by maintaining any other position.People suffering from this disease are forced to change their position every 10-20 minutes. The pain increases with coughing, sneezing, or straining. Alert should be pain in the neck, passing into the arm, numbness and weakness in the arm, sharp dizziness when turning the head. An urgent visit to a doctor is necessary in case of disruption of the bladder, the appearance of progressive muscle weakness in the limbs.

Can conservative treatment help and how long does the effect last?

– Conservative treatment often relieves the exacerbation of the process, eliminates pain and allows a person to return to their usual way of life.But you can get a lasting long-term effect of treatment only by eliminating the causes of disc herniation. These include weight correction, prolonged physical education aimed at strengthening the muscle corset and eliminating instability of the spinal segment, and in the presence of concomitant diseases of the musculoskeletal system, wearing corrective insoles or other external stabilization devices.

What modern methods of treatment can you suggest if conservative treatment did not give the desired result?

-Very effective methods that complement the traditional conservative treatment are therapeutic and drug blockades, facetoplasty – the introduction of a synovial fluid prosthesis into the intervertebral joints.

Are there situations when a herniated disc needs to be operated on urgently? What are the indications for surgery?

-A large disc herniation that compresses several roots of the spinal cord can lead to the development of cauda equina syndrome. This condition includes urinary retention, perineal numbness, paralysis in the feet and is an indication for emergency surgery. Indications for elective surgery are the ineffectiveness of conservative treatment with persistence of pain for 5-8 weeks, a progressive decrease in leg strength.All this is determined individually in each case.

When is complete spinal disc replacement necessary? What is an endoprosthesis?

-Total disc removal is performed in case of severe instability of the vertebral segment, the formation of spondylolisthesis, that is, “sliding” of one vertebra relative to the other. Such an operation is necessarily complemented by one or another stabilization method. This can be the placement of pedicle screws or interspinous stabilization.In this case, the disc is replaced with a special implant – an endoprosthesis. A disc endoprosthesis is a mechanical movable device implanted into the intervertebral space, maintaining mobility in the segment. Currently, there are a large number of endoprostheses that significantly improve the outcome of the operation. These are prostheses of the disc, annulus fibrosus, prostheses of the vertebral bodies and intervertebral joints.

Can the operation ensure that the problem does not return?

– A good result of surgical treatment can be expected only under the condition of mutual efforts of the surgeon and the patient.After the operation, it is necessary to follow the doctor’s recommendations for a long time: as a rule, these are weight loss, exercise therapy and other rehabilitation measures. When these conditions are met, there are practically no relapses of the disease and after 4-5 days the patient will be able to return home. It depends on the severity of the initial condition and the extent of the operation performed.

Tell us about the possible complications of hernias, if they were not found in time or did not begin to deal with them?

– If the hernia is not eliminated, complications will soon appear.These include impaired control of urination and defecation, persistent paralysis of the lower extremities in the case of lumbar hernias, as well as complete paralysis in cervical hernias. Also, with hernias of the spine, instability of blood pressure, headaches, dizziness, pain in the heart caused by intercostal neuralgia, or dysfunction of internal organs, including genitals, often appear.

What advice would you give to people who have just started or have had symptoms of herniated discs for some time now? What diagnostic methods are used in this case?

First of all, you need to consult a neurosurgeon.For a more precise diagnosis and determination of treatment methods, possible indications for surgical treatment, the doctor will prescribe the necessary diagnostic tests. In the multidisciplinary clinic “Reaviz” you can undergo X-ray and computed tomography using the most modern equipment.

90,000 Treatment of pain in the hip joint

Pain in the hip joint is a reason to consult a traumatologist-orthopedist or rheumatologist. It can be difficult for patients to deal with the nature of pain on their own, because the reasons can be completely different, or there may be several of them.

Let’s first turn to the pain syndrome associated with the hip joint itself.

Osteoarthritis of the hip joint (or, as it is also called, coxarthrosis) is a serious disease that, if left untreated, leads to disability. It develops over several years and begins with overload or inflammation in the joint. Patients notice the discomfort, but do not pay much attention to it until it develops into pain.As a result, the volume of fluid in the hip joint decreases, which “lubricates” the joint and nourishes the hyaline cartilage. Gradually, the cartilage becomes thinner and damaged, which causes pain and limited range of motion in the joint. The bones themselves that form the joint are also deformed, bone outgrowths – osteophytes appear. Often, injuries become the root cause of arthrosis of the hip joint, and then we are talking about post-traumatic coxarthrosis.

Dysplasia of the hip joints is a congenital underdevelopment of the acetabulum.Fortunately, now there are fewer and fewer patients with this diagnosis, due to the introduction of ultrasound screenings in childhood. This made it possible to identify patients earlier, and therefore help them at the very beginning of the disease. Dysplasia can cause dislocations and arthrosis, even in elderly patients. In this case, they speak of dysplastic coxarthrosis.

Aseptic or avascular necrosis of the femoral head occurs when blockage (thrombosis) or compression of the vascular bundle that supplies the femoral head with blood.As a result of exsanguination, the head of the femur begins to gradually lose calcium, cavities (cysts) are formed. Over time, this leads to severe pain and immobilization of patients. Naturally, it is better not to bring it up to this and consult a traumatologist-orthopedist at the slightest suspicion.

Fracture of the femoral neck is common in conditions such as osteoporosis (bone loss of calcium). The femoral neck – has a special bone structure – it allows you to withstand serious loads at a young age, and with the development of osteoporosis, one of the first becomes the target of the disease.It would seem that a fracture … Logically, it occurs after an injury, but what is typical for hip fractures in older people, the injury can be completely insignificant. For example, a fall from your own height or a bruise on a doorframe. A fracture can be suspected if a sharp pain appears, movements in the joint are disrupted, the leg is shortened and lies in an unnatural position. If the diagnosis is confirmed by an X-ray examination, then the fracture must be operated on, unless there are serious contraindications from the cardiac or respiratory systems.

Inflammation of the hip joint (coxitis, coxoarthritis) – another cause of problems in the hip joint. Inflammation can be accompanied by an increase in temperature, a change in the general condition of the body for the worse. This type of joint damage occurs in quite serious rheumatic diseases, such as ankylosing spondylitis, gouty arthritis, psoriasis with joint damage, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus.

Now a few words should be said about the causes of pain in the hip joint, which do not directly relate to it.They can be combined into 2 large groups:

1. “Causes from above” – these are disorders in structures that are adjacent to the hip joint, but are located above it. For example, diseases such as intervertebral hernia of the lumbar spine, sacroiliitis (inflammation of the sacroiliac joint), injuries and lesions of the coccyx and sacrum.