What are the common causes of sharp pain on the left side of the hip. How can you identify the symptoms associated with hip pain. What treatment options are available for left-sided hip pain.

Understanding Left-Sided Hip Pain: An Overview

Pain above the left hip can be a perplexing and concerning symptom, often stemming from various underlying conditions. This discomfort may not always originate from the hip itself but could be referred pain from other parts of the body. The causes range from minor injuries that resolve with rest to more severe conditions requiring immediate medical attention.

To accurately pinpoint the source of pain above your left hip, it’s crucial to consider accompanying symptoms. This comprehensive approach can help determine whether professional medical evaluation is necessary. Let’s explore the potential causes, their characteristic symptoms, diagnostic procedures, and available treatment options.

Common Causes of Left-Sided Hip Pain

Left-sided hip pain can be attributed to numerous factors, ranging from musculoskeletal issues to systemic conditions. Here are some of the most common causes:

• Arthritis
• Bursitis
• Muscle strain
• Pinched nerve
• Celiac disease
• Crohn’s disease
• Diverticulitis

While some of these conditions may resolve on their own, others require medical intervention. Understanding the specific characteristics of each can help in determining the appropriate course of action.

Arthritis: A Leading Cause of Hip Pain

Arthritis is a prevalent condition causing inflammation, stiffness, and often severe pain in one or more joints, including the hip. There are several types of arthritis that can affect the hip joint, each with its unique characteristics.

What causes arthritis in the hip? Arthritis can result from normal wear and tear, age-related degeneration of bone and cartilage, or systemic diseases. Common symptoms include:

• Redness around the affected joint
• Reduced range of motion
• Joint stiffness, especially in the morning
• Swelling of the hip area

Bursitis: Inflammation of the Hip Bursa

Bursitis occurs when small fluid-filled sacs called bursae, which cushion the bones in your hip, become inflamed. This condition is often caused by repetitive motions or positions that irritate the joint’s bursae, such as prolonged running or cycling.

How can you identify bursitis in the hip? Look for these symptoms:

• Aching pain in the hip area
• Redness and warmth around the joint
• Stiffness when moving the hip
• Swelling of the affected area

Gastrointestinal Conditions Causing Left-Sided Hip Pain

Interestingly, several gastrointestinal conditions can manifest as pain above the left hip. These include celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and diverticulitis.

Celiac Disease: When Gluten Becomes the Enemy

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by consuming gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. This condition affects the small intestine and can cause abdominal pain that may be perceived as hip pain.

What are the risk factors for celiac disease? While the exact cause remains unknown, certain factors increase the likelihood of developing this condition:

• Family history of celiac disease
• Presence of other autoimmune disorders
• Genetic predisposition (e.g., Down syndrome, Turner syndrome)
• Environmental factors

Crohn’s Disease: Inflammatory Bowel Condition

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the digestive tract, often causing abdominal pain that may be mistaken for hip pain. The exact cause of Crohn’s disease remains unclear, but several risk factors have been identified:

• Age (most commonly diagnosed in people under 30)
• Smoking
• Family history of inflammatory bowel diseases
• Certain ethnicities (e.g., people of Jewish European descent)
• Living in urban or industrialized areas

Diverticulitis: When Intestinal Pouches Become Inflamed

Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches (diverticula) that form in the lining of the digestive system become inflamed or infected. This condition often causes pain in the left side of the abdomen, which can be mistaken for hip pain.

What factors contribute to the development of diverticulitis? Several lifestyle and health-related factors can increase the risk:

• Advanced age
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Obesity
• Low-fiber diet
• Smoking
• Use of certain medications (e.g., steroids)

Musculoskeletal Causes of Left-Sided Hip Pain

Many cases of left-sided hip pain originate from musculoskeletal issues. These can range from simple muscle strains to more complex conditions like pinched nerves.

Muscle Strain: When Overexertion Leads to Pain

A muscle strain occurs when a muscle is overstretched or torn. If this happens on the left side of the body, it can cause pain above the left hip. Similarly, a side stitch, a common and usually temporary athletic injury, can cause discomfort in this area.

What activities commonly lead to muscle strains or side stitches? These injuries often result from:

• Poor form during sports or exercise
• Repetitive movements (e.g., long-distance running)
• Sudden, forceful movements
• Inadequate warm-up before physical activity

Pinched Nerve: When Nerves Come Under Pressure

A pinched nerve in the lower back occurs when surrounding tissues compress a nerve, often causing pain that radiates to the hip and legs. This condition can result from various factors:

• Herniated disc
• Spinal stenosis
• Degenerative disc disease
• Bone spurs
• Injuries to the spine

Diagnosing the Cause of Left-Sided Hip Pain

Accurately diagnosing the cause of left-sided hip pain often requires a comprehensive approach. Healthcare providers typically employ a combination of methods to determine the underlying condition:

1. Medical history review: The doctor will ask about the nature of the pain, its duration, and any associated symptoms.
2. Physical examination: This involves assessing the hip’s range of motion, strength, and any areas of tenderness.
3. Imaging tests: X-rays, MRI, or CT scans may be ordered to visualize the hip joint and surrounding structures.
4. Blood tests: These can help identify inflammatory markers or specific antibodies associated with certain conditions.
5. Specialized tests: Depending on the suspected cause, additional tests like nerve conduction studies or endoscopy may be recommended.

Treatment Options for Left-Sided Hip Pain

The treatment for left-sided hip pain varies depending on the underlying cause. Here are some common approaches:

Conservative Management

For many cases of hip pain, especially those resulting from minor injuries or overuse, conservative treatments are often effective:

• Rest and activity modification
• Ice or heat therapy
• Over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
• Physical therapy exercises
• Gentle stretching routines

Medications

Depending on the cause and severity of the pain, various medications may be prescribed:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Corticosteroids
• Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for certain types of arthritis
• Antibiotics for infections (e.g., in cases of diverticulitis)

Lifestyle Modifications

For conditions like celiac disease or Crohn’s disease, dietary changes play a crucial role in management:

• Gluten-free diet for celiac disease
• Low-residue diet during Crohn’s disease flare-ups
• Increased fiber intake for diverticulitis prevention

Surgical Interventions

In some cases, particularly for severe arthritis or persistent pinched nerves, surgery may be necessary:

• Hip replacement surgery
• Arthroscopic procedures
• Spinal decompression surgery

When to Seek Medical Attention for Left-Sided Hip Pain

While many causes of left-sided hip pain can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Seek help if you experience:

• Severe pain that interferes with daily activities
• Pain accompanied by fever or chills
• Sudden, intense pain following an injury
• Numbness or tingling in the leg
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent pain lasting more than a few weeks

Remember, early diagnosis and treatment can often lead to better outcomes and prevent complications. Don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare provider if you’re concerned about persistent or severe left-sided hip pain.

Preventing Left-Sided Hip Pain: Proactive Measures

While not all causes of left-sided hip pain are preventable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

1. Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your hips and joints.
2. Engage in regular, low-impact exercise to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.
3. Practice good posture to minimize strain on your back and hips.
4. Use proper form when lifting heavy objects or participating in sports.
5. Incorporate a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods.
6. Stay hydrated to support joint health and overall well-being.
7. Take regular breaks if your job involves prolonged sitting or repetitive movements.

By implementing these preventive measures, you can potentially reduce the likelihood of developing conditions that cause left-sided hip pain. However, it’s important to remember that some risk factors, such as age or genetic predisposition, are beyond our control.

Living with Chronic Left-Sided Hip Pain: Coping Strategies

For individuals dealing with chronic left-sided hip pain due to conditions like arthritis or persistent nerve issues, developing effective coping strategies is crucial. Here are some approaches that can help improve quality of life:

• Mindfulness and relaxation techniques to manage pain perception
• Joining support groups to connect with others facing similar challenges
• Exploring alternative therapies like acupuncture or massage (with doctor’s approval)
• Using assistive devices to reduce strain during daily activities
• Practicing good sleep hygiene to ensure restorative rest
• Working with a pain management specialist to develop a comprehensive treatment plan

Remember, managing chronic pain is often a journey that requires patience and persistence. It’s important to work closely with your healthcare team to find the most effective combination of treatments and coping strategies for your specific situation.

In conclusion, left-sided hip pain can arise from a diverse array of causes, ranging from localized musculoskeletal issues to systemic conditions affecting the digestive system. By understanding the potential causes, recognizing key symptoms, and knowing when to seek medical attention, you can take proactive steps towards managing and potentially resolving your hip pain. Remember, your health is paramount, and persistent or severe pain should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

Pain Above Left Hip on the Side, Back and Abdomen: Causes & Treatment

Left-side pain above the hip may be caused by a condition or injury affecting an entirely different part of your body. The causes range from mild injuries that heal quickly with rest to aggressive illnesses that require immediate medical treatment.

To determine the source of the pain above your left hip, it’s usually necessary to take a look at your other symptoms. Doing so can make it easier to know if you should see a doctor.

Here are the possible causes, their symptoms, how they’re diagnosed, and your treatment options.

A few of the less serious causes of pain above the left hip will resolve on their own without treatment. However, many conditions require medical attention.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition that causes swelling, stiffness, and sometimes severe pain in one or more of the body’s joints. There are several types of arthritis that can cause pain above the left hip.

Possible causes of arthritis include normal wear and tear or age-related breakdown of bone in the body. In some cases, arthritis is caused by disease.

Arthritis symptoms you may experience include:

• redness
• reduced range of motion
• stiffness
• swelling

Bursitis

Bursitis causes inflammation of small fluid-filled sacs (called bursae) that pad your bones, including those in your hip. Most cases of bursitis in the hip are caused by repetitive motions or positions that irritate a joint’s bursae, such as running.

Other bursitis symptoms include:

• aches
• redness
• stiffness
• swelling

Celiac disease

Celiac disease is caused by an allergic reaction to eating gluten that affects the small intestine, causing pain and discomfort in the abdomen. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Doctors aren’t certain exactly what causes celiac disease, but some risk factors include:

• Addison’s disease
• family history of celiac disease or dermatitis herpetiformis
• autoimmune thyroid disease
• Down syndrome or Turner syndrome
• microscopic colitis

Other common symptoms of celiac disease include:

• abdominal pain
• anemia
• bloating
• constipation
• diarrhea
• fatigue
• itchy skin and rashes
• nausea
• nervous system problems
• weight loss
• vomiting

Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease causes inflammation of the digestive tract, causing pain in the abdomen. Doctors don’t know the exact cause, but the following factors may put some people at risk of Crohn’s disease:

• autoimmune issues
• being around age 30
• smoking cigarettes
• a family history of Crohn’s disease
• being of Northern European or Anglo-Saxon descent
• being of Jewish European descent, also called Ashkenazi Jewish descent
• living in an urban environment
• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medications

Other symptoms of Crohn’s disease include:

• abdominal cramps
• bile duct and liver inflammation
• blood in stool
• delayed growth and sexual development (in children)
• diarrhea
• eye, skin, and joint inflammation
• fatigue
• fever
• fistula
• mouth sores
• reduced appetite
• weight loss

Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is a condition causing inflammation or infection of the small pouches (called diverticula) that line the digestive system. This often causes pain in the left side of the abdomen. Diverticulitis occurs when these pouches tear.

Causes of diverticulitis include:

• advanced age
• lack of exercise
• obesity
• poor, low-fiber diet
• smoking
• some medications, such as steroids

Other symptoms of diverticulitis include:

• constipation
• diarrhea
• fever
• nausea
• tender abdomen
• vomiting

Muscle strain or stitch

Muscle strains are a severe pulling or overextension of a muscle. If a strain occurs on the left side of the body, it may cause pain above the left hip. So can side stitches, a common and temporary athletic injury.

Causes of muscle strains and stitches include:

• poor form during sports activities
• repetitive movements such as running

Other symptoms of a muscle strain or stitch include:

• bruising
• limited motion
• muscle spasms
• muscle weakness
• pain when breathing
• redness
• swelling

Pinched nerve

A pinched nerve in the lower back occurs when a nerve becomes compressed by surrounding body tissues, often causing pain near the hip and in the legs.

Common causes of a pinched nerve include:

• arthritis
• herniated disc
• injury
• obesity
• repetitive motions
• sciatica

Pinched nerve symptoms may also include:

• burning sensation
• feeling your foot has fallen asleep
• muscle weakness
• numbness
• tingling or pins and needles sensation

Polymyalgia rheumatica

Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory condition that causes muscle pain and stiffness, which often worsens in the mornings. Causes aren’t clear but are likely to include:

• advanced age
• environmental factors
• genetic history of polymyalgia rheumatica

Other symptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica include:

• depression
• fatigue
• mild fever
• limited range of motion
• loss of appetite
• weight loss

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction and sacroiliitis

The sacroiliac joints are found where your lower spine and pelvis meet, near the hips. Sacroiliac joint dysfunction occurs when there is flawed movement in at least one of the sacroiliac joints.

Causes of sacroiliac joint dysfunction include:

• arthritis
• infection
• pregnancy
• traumatic injury

Symptoms may be worsened by

• bearing extra weight on one leg
• climbing stairs
• running
• standing for long periods
• taking long strides when walking or running

Sacroiliitis is the inflammation of the sacroiliac joint. This can cause pain along the buttocks, hip, lower back, and sometimes down the leg.

Osteomyelitis

Osteomyelitis is a bone infection that can occur when bacteria enters a bone inside the body. Common causes of bone infection include:

• infection through the bloodstream
• injuries such as puncture wounds
• unsterile surgery

Besides pain in the affected bone, symptoms of a bone infection include:

• fatigue
• fever
• redness, swelling, and warmth at the infection site

Bone cancer

Bone cancer, or unusual growth in the bone, is often benign. However, in some cases the growth can become aggressive and spread to other parts of the body. This can cause pain and a palpable hard mass in the bones.

There are different types of bone cancer, all of which can be painful. Genetics, disease, and radiation therapy for other cancers may be risk factors for bone cancer. Additional symptoms of bone cancer include:

• fatigue
• swelling
• unintended weight loss
• weakened bones that fracture easily

Hernia

An inguinal hernia is a condition caused by the protrusion of part of the intestine through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. This can cause a lot of pain.

Causes include:

• chronic sneezing or coughing
• increased abdominal pressure
• intense activity
• pregnancy
• strain during bowel movements or during urination
• weak spots in the abdominal wall

Iliopsoas abscess

Iliopsoas abscess is a very uncommon but serious condition causing an infected mass to form along the upper part of the hip bone (ilium). Other symptoms may include:

• fever
• pain in the groin
• visual deformity on the hip

The most common cause of iliopsoas abscess is Crohn’s disease. Other causes include:

• HIV and AIDS
• diabetes
• intravenous drug abuse
• kidney failure
• suppressed immune system

Ilium fracture

An ilium fracture is a break in the large upper part of the hip bone. Fractures may be mild, moderate, or severe. Symptoms may include:

• fatigue
• fever
• redness and swelling at the fracture site

Causes include:

• advanced age
• physical stress that is repetitive, such as long-distance running
• trauma, such as a fall or car accident
• weakened bones, such as in osteoporosis

Kidney stones

Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys, located at the back side of your body above your hips. Kidney stones may cause the following symptoms:

• excessive urination
• nausea
• painful urination
• persistent urge to urinate
• radiating pain in the lower abdomen and groin
• smelly or cloudy urine
• urine that is pink, red, or brown
• urine that comes out in small amounts
• vomiting

Causes include:

• special diets, especially those high in protein, salt, and sugar
• dehydration
• digestive issues
• family history
• obesity
• other medical conditions

Left-sided appendicitis

Appendicitis causes sudden painful inflammation of the appendix, which can be deadly if untreated. The appendix is located on the right side of the abdomen, but in very rare cases, it can cause pain on the left side. Other symptoms include:

• bloating in the abdomen
• constipation
• diarrhea
• fever that worsens over time
• flatulence
• loss of appetite
• nausea
• pain worsened by movement or coughing
• vomiting

Appendicitis is caused by a blockage in the appendix lining that causes infection.

Leukemia

Leukemia is cancer of the body’s blood-forming tissues, which can cause pain in the bones. Other symptoms may include:

• bruises or bleeding that occurs easily
• chills
• enlarged liver or spleen
• fever
• frequent infections
• nosebleeds
• red spots on the skin called petechiae
• sweating, especially at night
• swollen lymph nodes
• unintentional weight loss
• weakness

There are several types of leukemia. Doctors think leukemia is caused by mutations in blood cells in the body.

Pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer is cancer of the organ that lies behind the bottom of your stomach (the pancreas). If left untreated, pancreatic tumors can cause hip pain. Other symptoms include:

• blood clots
• depression
• diabetes that’s newly developed
• fatigue
• loss of appetite
• unintentional weight loss
• yellowed skin and eyes (jaundice)

Doctors aren’t sure what causes pancreatic cancer, but it appears smoking can increase your risk of the disease.

There are some causes of pain above the left hip that can only affect females. These include:

Ectopic pregnancy

Ectopic pregnancy happens when a fertilized egg attaches itself to the outside of the uterus instead of the inside. This condition can lead to an emergency if left untreated. Besides intense abdominal and side pain, symptoms include:

• early pregnancy symptoms
• light vaginal bleeding that worsens over time
• positive pregnancy test

Risk factors of ectopic pregnancy include:

• getting pregnant while using an intrauterine device (IUD)
• having a damaged fallopian tube
• having a sexually transmitted infection
• having had a previous ectopic pregnancy
• having undergone fertility treatments
• smoking

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a painful condition causing the lining of the uterus to grow outside rather than inside the uterus. It can affect the ovaries, fallopian tubes, pelvic tissue, and other organs in the pelvis. Other signs of endometriosis include:

• bloating
• constipation
• diarrhea
• excessive bleeding during or between periods
• infertility
• nausea
• pain during sexual intercourse
• pain during urination or bowel movements
• painful periods (dysmenorrhea)

A clear cause of endometriosis isn’t known. But risk factors include:

• atypical reproductive tract
• female relatives with endometriosis
• going through menopause late
• having short menstrual cycles (less than 27 days)
• heavy periods
• high levels of estrogen in the body
• low body mass index
• not giving birth
• starting menstruation at a young age

Menstrual pain

Menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea) affects many women who menstruate, sometimes causing widespread abdominal pain. Other signs include:

• cramping or throbbing sensation
• dizziness
• dull ache
• headache
• loose stools and diarrhea
• pain that hits 1 to 3 days before your period and stops in 2 to 3 days

Menstrual cramps are triggered by hormonal changes associated with menstruation. However, some conditions affecting the female reproductive tract, including endometriosis, may worsen menstrual pain.

Ovarian cyst

Ovarian cysts are sacs filled with fluid that may grow on a woman’s ovaries and cause pain in the abdomen. In most cases, these cysts are harmless and may not even cause symptoms. However, some women experience pain as well as:

• aches
• bloating
• heaviness in the abdomen

You may be at risk of developing an ovarian cyst if you have:

• endometriosis
• hormonal issues
• pelvic infection
• pregnancy
• previous ovarian cysts

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

Pelvic inflammatory disease is a serious infection affecting the female reproductive system. Often it causes no symptoms at first, but if untreated it can cause severe abdominal pain. Other possible symptoms include:

• abnormal bleeding between cycles or after sex
• fever with chills
• heavy and unpleasant smelling vaginal discharge
• pain and bleeding during sex
• painful urination or problems urinating

There is one cause of pain above the left hip that can only affect men:

Prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is a growth that affects the prostate gland, which produces sperm. Some cases of prostate cancer are slow-growing and cause few symptoms. Others are more painful, serious, and aggressive.

Some symptoms include:

• blood in semen
• bone pain
• difficult urination
• erectile dysfunction
• lowered urine stream

The cause of prostate cancer is unknown. However, some risk factors include:

• advanced age
• being of African descent
• family history
• obesity

To diagnose the cause of pain above your left hip, a doctor will start by asking you about your symptoms and medical history. They will also perform a physical exam, looking closely at your left hip area.

They may run tests to better determine the cause of your pain. These include:

• Blood, joint fluid, and urine tests. Testing the body’s fluids can reveal abnormalities that indicate disease in the blood, bones, and urinary tract.
• Endoscopy. An endoscopy involves sending a long camera tube down a person’s throat to look inside the small intestine. This can reveal signs of infection or digestive disorders.
• Imaging tests. CT scans, ultrasounds, MRIs, and X-rays can reveal cancers, cysts, deformities, and bone fractures.

Depending on what the doctor finds, they may refer you to a specialist who can better diagnose and treat the cause of your pain above your left hip. These specialists may include:

• gastroenterologist (specializes in digestive health)
• obstetrician-gynecologist (specializes in women’s health)
• oncologist (cancer doctor)
• orthopedist (specializes in bone health)
• urologist (specializes in male reproductive and urinary tract health)

The kind of treatment you need for the pain above your left hip depends on the cause. Treatment may include:

• antibiotics to clear infections such as diverticulitis and PID
• chemotherapy and radiation to treat cancer
• lifestyle changes such as a change in diet, quitting smoking, and increased exercise to treat conditions like Crohn’s disease and side stitches
• medications like NSAIDs to reduce symptoms of dysmenorrhea
• rest for mild causes of pain above the left hip, such as muscle strains and side stitches
• surgery to treat certain cancers, remove cysts or the appendix, and repair fractures

In some cases, pain above the left hip is a major cause for concern. However, in most cases, it can be treated easily with rest or an over-the-counter NSAID.

Most causes of pain above the left hip are not immediate emergencies and are easily treatable. Paying attention to all of your symptoms can help lead you and your doctor to a treatment that will resolve your pain.

If you’re concerned about your pain above the left hip and don’t already have a primary care provider, you can view doctors in your area through the Healthline FindCare tool.

Pain Above Left Hip on the Side, Back and Abdomen: Causes & Treatment

Left-side pain above the hip may be caused by a condition or injury affecting an entirely different part of your body. The causes range from mild injuries that heal quickly with rest to aggressive illnesses that require immediate medical treatment.

To determine the source of the pain above your left hip, it’s usually necessary to take a look at your other symptoms. Doing so can make it easier to know if you should see a doctor.

Here are the possible causes, their symptoms, how they’re diagnosed, and your treatment options.

A few of the less serious causes of pain above the left hip will resolve on their own without treatment. However, many conditions require medical attention.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition that causes swelling, stiffness, and sometimes severe pain in one or more of the body’s joints. There are several types of arthritis that can cause pain above the left hip.

Possible causes of arthritis include normal wear and tear or age-related breakdown of bone in the body. In some cases, arthritis is caused by disease.

Arthritis symptoms you may experience include:

• redness
• reduced range of motion
• stiffness
• swelling

Bursitis

Bursitis causes inflammation of small fluid-filled sacs (called bursae) that pad your bones, including those in your hip. Most cases of bursitis in the hip are caused by repetitive motions or positions that irritate a joint’s bursae, such as running.

Other bursitis symptoms include:

• aches
• redness
• stiffness
• swelling

Celiac disease

Celiac disease is caused by an allergic reaction to eating gluten that affects the small intestine, causing pain and discomfort in the abdomen. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Doctors aren’t certain exactly what causes celiac disease, but some risk factors include:

• Addison’s disease
• family history of celiac disease or dermatitis herpetiformis
• autoimmune thyroid disease
• Down syndrome or Turner syndrome
• microscopic colitis

Other common symptoms of celiac disease include:

• abdominal pain
• anemia
• bloating
• constipation
• diarrhea
• fatigue
• itchy skin and rashes
• nausea
• nervous system problems
• weight loss
• vomiting

Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease causes inflammation of the digestive tract, causing pain in the abdomen. Doctors don’t know the exact cause, but the following factors may put some people at risk of Crohn’s disease:

• autoimmune issues
• being around age 30
• smoking cigarettes
• a family history of Crohn’s disease
• being of Northern European or Anglo-Saxon descent
• being of Jewish European descent, also called Ashkenazi Jewish descent
• living in an urban environment
• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medications

Other symptoms of Crohn’s disease include:

• abdominal cramps
• bile duct and liver inflammation
• blood in stool
• delayed growth and sexual development (in children)
• diarrhea
• eye, skin, and joint inflammation
• fatigue
• fever
• fistula
• mouth sores
• reduced appetite
• weight loss

Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is a condition causing inflammation or infection of the small pouches (called diverticula) that line the digestive system. This often causes pain in the left side of the abdomen. Diverticulitis occurs when these pouches tear.

Causes of diverticulitis include:

• advanced age
• lack of exercise
• obesity
• poor, low-fiber diet
• smoking
• some medications, such as steroids

Other symptoms of diverticulitis include:

• constipation
• diarrhea
• fever
• nausea
• tender abdomen
• vomiting

Muscle strain or stitch

Muscle strains are a severe pulling or overextension of a muscle. If a strain occurs on the left side of the body, it may cause pain above the left hip. So can side stitches, a common and temporary athletic injury.

Causes of muscle strains and stitches include:

• poor form during sports activities
• repetitive movements such as running

Other symptoms of a muscle strain or stitch include:

• bruising
• limited motion
• muscle spasms
• muscle weakness
• pain when breathing
• redness
• swelling

Pinched nerve

A pinched nerve in the lower back occurs when a nerve becomes compressed by surrounding body tissues, often causing pain near the hip and in the legs.

Common causes of a pinched nerve include:

• arthritis
• herniated disc
• injury
• obesity
• repetitive motions
• sciatica

Pinched nerve symptoms may also include:

• burning sensation
• feeling your foot has fallen asleep
• muscle weakness
• numbness
• tingling or pins and needles sensation

Polymyalgia rheumatica

Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory condition that causes muscle pain and stiffness, which often worsens in the mornings. Causes aren’t clear but are likely to include:

• advanced age
• environmental factors
• genetic history of polymyalgia rheumatica

Other symptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica include:

• depression
• fatigue
• mild fever
• limited range of motion
• loss of appetite
• weight loss

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction and sacroiliitis

The sacroiliac joints are found where your lower spine and pelvis meet, near the hips. Sacroiliac joint dysfunction occurs when there is flawed movement in at least one of the sacroiliac joints.

Causes of sacroiliac joint dysfunction include:

• arthritis
• infection
• pregnancy
• traumatic injury

Symptoms may be worsened by

• bearing extra weight on one leg
• climbing stairs
• running
• standing for long periods
• taking long strides when walking or running

Sacroiliitis is the inflammation of the sacroiliac joint. This can cause pain along the buttocks, hip, lower back, and sometimes down the leg.

Osteomyelitis

Osteomyelitis is a bone infection that can occur when bacteria enters a bone inside the body. Common causes of bone infection include:

• infection through the bloodstream
• injuries such as puncture wounds
• unsterile surgery

Besides pain in the affected bone, symptoms of a bone infection include:

• fatigue
• fever
• redness, swelling, and warmth at the infection site

Bone cancer

Bone cancer, or unusual growth in the bone, is often benign. However, in some cases the growth can become aggressive and spread to other parts of the body. This can cause pain and a palpable hard mass in the bones.

There are different types of bone cancer, all of which can be painful. Genetics, disease, and radiation therapy for other cancers may be risk factors for bone cancer. Additional symptoms of bone cancer include:

• fatigue
• swelling
• unintended weight loss
• weakened bones that fracture easily

Hernia

An inguinal hernia is a condition caused by the protrusion of part of the intestine through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. This can cause a lot of pain.

Causes include:

• chronic sneezing or coughing
• increased abdominal pressure
• intense activity
• pregnancy
• strain during bowel movements or during urination
• weak spots in the abdominal wall

Iliopsoas abscess

Iliopsoas abscess is a very uncommon but serious condition causing an infected mass to form along the upper part of the hip bone (ilium). Other symptoms may include:

• fever
• pain in the groin
• visual deformity on the hip

The most common cause of iliopsoas abscess is Crohn’s disease. Other causes include:

• HIV and AIDS
• diabetes
• intravenous drug abuse
• kidney failure
• suppressed immune system

Ilium fracture

An ilium fracture is a break in the large upper part of the hip bone. Fractures may be mild, moderate, or severe. Symptoms may include:

• fatigue
• fever
• redness and swelling at the fracture site

Causes include:

• advanced age
• physical stress that is repetitive, such as long-distance running
• trauma, such as a fall or car accident
• weakened bones, such as in osteoporosis

Kidney stones

Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys, located at the back side of your body above your hips. Kidney stones may cause the following symptoms:

• excessive urination
• nausea
• painful urination
• persistent urge to urinate
• radiating pain in the lower abdomen and groin
• smelly or cloudy urine
• urine that is pink, red, or brown
• urine that comes out in small amounts
• vomiting

Causes include:

• special diets, especially those high in protein, salt, and sugar
• dehydration
• digestive issues
• family history
• obesity
• other medical conditions

Left-sided appendicitis

Appendicitis causes sudden painful inflammation of the appendix, which can be deadly if untreated. The appendix is located on the right side of the abdomen, but in very rare cases, it can cause pain on the left side. Other symptoms include:

• bloating in the abdomen
• constipation
• diarrhea
• fever that worsens over time
• flatulence
• loss of appetite
• nausea
• pain worsened by movement or coughing
• vomiting

Appendicitis is caused by a blockage in the appendix lining that causes infection.

Leukemia

Leukemia is cancer of the body’s blood-forming tissues, which can cause pain in the bones. Other symptoms may include:

• bruises or bleeding that occurs easily
• chills
• enlarged liver or spleen
• fever
• frequent infections
• nosebleeds
• red spots on the skin called petechiae
• sweating, especially at night
• swollen lymph nodes
• unintentional weight loss
• weakness

There are several types of leukemia. Doctors think leukemia is caused by mutations in blood cells in the body.

Pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer is cancer of the organ that lies behind the bottom of your stomach (the pancreas). If left untreated, pancreatic tumors can cause hip pain. Other symptoms include:

• blood clots
• depression
• diabetes that’s newly developed
• fatigue
• loss of appetite
• unintentional weight loss
• yellowed skin and eyes (jaundice)

Doctors aren’t sure what causes pancreatic cancer, but it appears smoking can increase your risk of the disease.

There are some causes of pain above the left hip that can only affect females. These include:

Ectopic pregnancy

Ectopic pregnancy happens when a fertilized egg attaches itself to the outside of the uterus instead of the inside. This condition can lead to an emergency if left untreated. Besides intense abdominal and side pain, symptoms include:

• early pregnancy symptoms
• light vaginal bleeding that worsens over time
• positive pregnancy test

Risk factors of ectopic pregnancy include:

• getting pregnant while using an intrauterine device (IUD)
• having a damaged fallopian tube
• having a sexually transmitted infection
• having had a previous ectopic pregnancy
• having undergone fertility treatments
• smoking

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a painful condition causing the lining of the uterus to grow outside rather than inside the uterus. It can affect the ovaries, fallopian tubes, pelvic tissue, and other organs in the pelvis. Other signs of endometriosis include:

• bloating
• constipation
• diarrhea
• excessive bleeding during or between periods
• infertility
• nausea
• pain during sexual intercourse
• pain during urination or bowel movements
• painful periods (dysmenorrhea)

A clear cause of endometriosis isn’t known. But risk factors include:

• atypical reproductive tract
• female relatives with endometriosis
• going through menopause late
• having short menstrual cycles (less than 27 days)
• heavy periods
• high levels of estrogen in the body
• low body mass index
• not giving birth
• starting menstruation at a young age

Menstrual pain

Menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea) affects many women who menstruate, sometimes causing widespread abdominal pain. Other signs include:

• cramping or throbbing sensation
• dizziness
• dull ache
• headache
• loose stools and diarrhea
• pain that hits 1 to 3 days before your period and stops in 2 to 3 days

Menstrual cramps are triggered by hormonal changes associated with menstruation. However, some conditions affecting the female reproductive tract, including endometriosis, may worsen menstrual pain.

Ovarian cyst

Ovarian cysts are sacs filled with fluid that may grow on a woman’s ovaries and cause pain in the abdomen. In most cases, these cysts are harmless and may not even cause symptoms. However, some women experience pain as well as:

• aches
• bloating
• heaviness in the abdomen

You may be at risk of developing an ovarian cyst if you have:

• endometriosis
• hormonal issues
• pelvic infection
• pregnancy
• previous ovarian cysts

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

Pelvic inflammatory disease is a serious infection affecting the female reproductive system. Often it causes no symptoms at first, but if untreated it can cause severe abdominal pain. Other possible symptoms include:

• abnormal bleeding between cycles or after sex
• fever with chills
• heavy and unpleasant smelling vaginal discharge
• pain and bleeding during sex
• painful urination or problems urinating

There is one cause of pain above the left hip that can only affect men:

Prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is a growth that affects the prostate gland, which produces sperm. Some cases of prostate cancer are slow-growing and cause few symptoms. Others are more painful, serious, and aggressive.

Some symptoms include:

• blood in semen
• bone pain
• difficult urination
• erectile dysfunction
• lowered urine stream

The cause of prostate cancer is unknown. However, some risk factors include:

• advanced age
• being of African descent
• family history
• obesity

To diagnose the cause of pain above your left hip, a doctor will start by asking you about your symptoms and medical history. They will also perform a physical exam, looking closely at your left hip area.

They may run tests to better determine the cause of your pain. These include:

• Blood, joint fluid, and urine tests. Testing the body’s fluids can reveal abnormalities that indicate disease in the blood, bones, and urinary tract.
• Endoscopy. An endoscopy involves sending a long camera tube down a person’s throat to look inside the small intestine. This can reveal signs of infection or digestive disorders.
• Imaging tests. CT scans, ultrasounds, MRIs, and X-rays can reveal cancers, cysts, deformities, and bone fractures.

Depending on what the doctor finds, they may refer you to a specialist who can better diagnose and treat the cause of your pain above your left hip. These specialists may include:

• gastroenterologist (specializes in digestive health)
• obstetrician-gynecologist (specializes in women’s health)
• oncologist (cancer doctor)
• orthopedist (specializes in bone health)
• urologist (specializes in male reproductive and urinary tract health)

The kind of treatment you need for the pain above your left hip depends on the cause. Treatment may include:

• antibiotics to clear infections such as diverticulitis and PID
• chemotherapy and radiation to treat cancer
• lifestyle changes such as a change in diet, quitting smoking, and increased exercise to treat conditions like Crohn’s disease and side stitches
• medications like NSAIDs to reduce symptoms of dysmenorrhea
• rest for mild causes of pain above the left hip, such as muscle strains and side stitches
• surgery to treat certain cancers, remove cysts or the appendix, and repair fractures

In some cases, pain above the left hip is a major cause for concern. However, in most cases, it can be treated easily with rest or an over-the-counter NSAID.

Most causes of pain above the left hip are not immediate emergencies and are easily treatable. Paying attention to all of your symptoms can help lead you and your doctor to a treatment that will resolve your pain.

If you’re concerned about your pain above the left hip and don’t already have a primary care provider, you can view doctors in your area through the Healthline FindCare tool.

Sharp pain in the left side, in the hypochondrium

• Abdominal ultrasound. Allows you to assess the size, shape, structure of internal organs, the state of their tissues, pathological processes;
• Radiography. Allows you to identify various displacements, enlarged spleen, ulcer complications. To exclude pneumonia and pleurisy, which can give pain in the hypochondrium, a chest x-ray will help;
• Spleen scintigraphy. A technique aimed at evaluating an organ. Detects focal changes in the parenchyma that occur in infectious or myeloproliferative pathologies;
• Laparoscopy. A diagnostic method that is used in difficult cases. Allows you to assess the contents of the peritoneum from the inside. With the help of laparoscopy, tumors, ruptures are determined, the walls of internal organs are examined;
• Laboratory methods. In the diagnosis of acute pain in the left side, KLA is actively used, and a biochemical blood test, KLA, and a coprogram.

Treatment

If the patient has a sharp pain in the left side, it is necessary to consult a doctor. The causes of this symptom can be many, approaches to treatment are different. Before visiting the clinic, you must strictly adhere to the diet. Fatty, fried, salty, spicy, smoked dishes should be completely excluded. Also under the restriction alcohol, coffee, sweets, carbonated drinks. Food should be light and sparing.

Medical therapy

Drug treatment of pain in the left side is selected based on the cause of this symptom. First of all, the patient is prescribed analgesics, which help to stop discomfort (in especially severe cases, novocaine blockades are indicated). The standard treatment regimen includes:

• Enzymes. They help to cope with pancreatic insufficiency, when the body is not able to independently produce a sufficient amount of biologically active substances. Their use restores digestion, eliminates pain, flatulence. To improve the microflora, therapy is often supplemented with probiotics;
• Antisecretory drugs. Used in patients with ulcers, gastritis. Reduce the damaging effect of hydrochloric acid, which destroys mucous membranes. Stop the pain on the background of hyperacidity;
• NSAIDs. Stop the inflammatory process, eliminate pain. Please note: for ulcers, drugs of this group are not used, as they reduce the natural protection of the mucosa;
• Antibiotics. Necessary in cases where the cause of a sharp pain in the left side is pneumonia or pleurisy;
• Antiviral and antiprotozoal agents. They are used for pain caused by an enlarged spleen;
• proteolysis inhibitors. Suppress the production of enzymes in patients with acute pancreatitis. Also administered for acute pain, massive bleeding.

Physiotherapy

In some patients, acute pain in the left side indicates Payr’s syndrome. In this case, a complex of physiotherapy is prescribed. Electrophoresis with anesthetics helps to cope with discomfort. UHF, heating, massage, iontophoresis are capable of establishing intestinal motility and eliminating constipation. With intercostal neuralgia, magnetotherapy and currents are prescribed.

Methods of surgical intervention

With stabbing pain in the left side, caused by serious disorders, surgical intervention is indicated. With an abscess or necrosis against the background of pancreatitis, pancreatic resection is performed. In patients with myocardial infarction, measures are taken to restore blood flow. With pleurisy, doctors prescribe a puncture of the fluid, followed by drainage.

Serious pathologies of the spleen, such as abscess, heart attack, vein thrombosis, require immediate medical attention. Performs partial or total excision of the organ. In some cases, operations to suture injuries are possible, but lacerations, crush injuries are an indication for splenectomy.

When to go to the clinic

A sharp pain in the left side can not be tolerated. It can indicate serious pathological processes in the body. You should immediately consult a doctor if discomfort is accompanied by the following symptoms:

• Increased body temperature. May indicate acute pancreatitis, intestinal infections, inflammation in the kidneys. Do not take antipyretics, as they lubricate the clinical picture – this greatly complicates the diagnosis;
• Nausea and vomiting. They are symptoms of all serious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. It is especially dangerous if there is blood in the vomit;
• Diarrhea. Indicates gastritis, pancreatitis, intestinal infections. It is worth visiting a doctor immediately if the feces are black or bloody.

No less important symptoms for which you should visit a doctor are flatulence, bloating, heartburn, pain after eating, rapid weight loss.

Frequently asked questions

Which doctor treats pain in the left hypochondrium?

If you are often tormented by pain in your left side – both acute and dull, with and without fever, with other pathological symptoms – you should contact a gastroenterologist or surgeon. The doctor will conduct the necessary diagnostics and determine which organ disorders cause pain.

Should I be afraid of pain in my left side?

Pain in the left side signals many problems. It can be provoked not only by disorders in the gastrointestinal tract, but also by cardiovascular pathologies: from angina pectoris to a heart attack. If you often feel backaches in the left hypochondrium that radiate to the arm or shoulder, contact your doctor immediately.

What can hurt in the left side?

The left hypochondrium is a location, the pain in which may indicate many disorders. Most often, patients with this symptom have problems with the pancreas, spleen, and left kidney.

Pain in the left side is a serious problem that affects the quality of life. Acute discomfort can lead to loss of consciousness. In the most advanced situations, pain can indicate the development of perforation and peritonitis with a stomach ulcer, pyelonephritis, and a chronic form of cystitis.

Hip pain

There are many health conditions that lead to hip pain. Some of them are congenital, others are formed with age. The causes of pain in the thigh can be infectious diseases, tuberculosis of the bone.

Most often, hip pain is associated with pain in the hip joint.

Causes of pain in the hip joint are:

• increased load on the joint,

• joint injury, overweight,

• hormonal disorders,

• metabolic disorders, age,

• genetic predisposition.

The most common diseases that give pain in the hip joint are coxarthrosis (arthrosis of the hip joint) and intervertebral hernia.

Nature of pain and development

1. In arthrosis of the hip joints, the earliest and most sensitive symptom of the disease is limited internal rotation with a flexed hip joint and pain in the hip. As a rule, the pain comes from the upper part of the thigh and gives to the knee, which is especially felt when walking. Often aggravated by standing on one leg (on the affected side). The mechanical rhythm of pain is characteristic, that is, their occurrence in the evening hours under the influence of daytime stress and subsiding during the night’s rest. Such pains indicate that there has already been a decrease in the depreciation properties of the cartilage and the osteoarticular surface to loads. At night, dull pains associated with venous stasis in the subchondral bone and increased intraosseous pressure may disturb. When walking, these pains usually disappear.

2. Secondary changes in the bone with subchondral sclerosis, osteophytes and narrowing of the interarticular space during the progression of the disease, in addition to pain associated with movement, cause joint deformity, limited range of motion, crunching, clicking sensation in the joint.

3. With a herniated disc in the lumbar spine, the pain in the joint is aggravated by exertion or movement (eg, rising from a sitting position, standing, walking, standing up on toes) and is felt primarily in the groin. However, it can radiate along the anterior and lateral surface of the thigh, into the buttocks, into the anterior part of the knee, and occasionally along the anterior surface of the lower leg up to the ankle joint. A prolapsed intervertebral disc can cause pain in the groin. The abrupt nature and aggravation on exertion (cough + additional pain in the back) allow us to establish its nature.

4. Trochanteric bursitis causes local pain and tenderness over the trochanter, sometimes radiating down the lateral surface of the thigh. It is especially painful when lying on a sore side. The pain of ischio-gluteal bursitis is felt mainly from behind and worsens when the patient is sitting.

5. Fibrosis of the articular capsule leads to compression of the nerve endings, which leads to pain during certain movements associated with the expansion of the capsule.

6. Constant pain during any movement in the joint can cause reflex spasm of nearby muscles. Tension in the groin is usually the result of a sports injury and is aggravated by standing on the affected leg.

Recommendations

For hip pain, great attention is paid to reducing the load on the joint. It is better to do housework in a sitting position, wash the floors only with a mop, and not tilt, the height of the chair and toilet should be sufficient, it is better to install handrails in the bathroom to make it easier to climb. The use of a cane in coxarthrosis can reduce the load on the vertical axis on the joints. The cane must be carried in the hand opposite the affected joint.

Treatment

In the treatment and rehabilitation center “ODA” a complex of therapeutic measures is used to relieve pain in the thigh. We influence all stages of the development of the disease.

1. Laser therapy has a powerful analgesic effect. Elderly people and patients for whom electrical procedures are contraindicated at the ODA Medical Exhibition Center can be offered magnetic therapy.

2. Joint traction on the ORMED computer bed. Joint traction is carried out in a dosed manner, 10-12 procedures are performed, during which the blood supply to the joint improves significantly, the interarticular gap increases.