Overview
The hip is a deep ball-and-socket joint that supports your body's weight through millions of steps. When the smooth articular cartilage wears away, or when surrounding tendons and the labrum become inflamed, friction creates pain that frequently radiates into the groin, thigh, or buttock.
Common Causes of Hip Pain
- Hip osteoarthritis (loss of smooth cartilage lining the ball and socket)
- Trochanteric bursitis (inflammation of the fluid-filled sac outside the hip)
- Labral tears (damage to the ring of cartilage sealing the hip socket)
- Femoroacetabular impingement (bone spurs causing joint pinch during motion)
- Avascular necrosis (diminished blood supply to the femoral head)
- Referred pain from lumbar spine disc compression or sacroiliac joints
Symptoms That May Need Evaluation
You should consider an orthopedic evaluation if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Deep groin pain or pain radiating down the front of the thigh to the knee
- Outer hip pain when lying on that side at night
- Stiffness that makes putting on socks or tying shoes difficult
- Limping or difficulty bearing weight on one leg
- Catching or clicking sensation deep within the hip joint
How Problems Are Diagnosed
Dr. Dalal conducts a careful physical exam checking internal and external rotation, gait mechanics, and local tender points. Digital X-rays assess joint space preservation and bony changes. Additional imaging, such as an MRI or diagnostic injection, may be utilized to confirm the precise pain generator.
Nonsurgical Treatment Options
Dr. Dalal emphasizes conservative care whenever possible before considering surgical intervention:
- Physical therapy focusing on core stability, hip abductors, and pelvic balance
- Activity modifications and low-impact exercise (swimming, cycling)
- Targeted ultrasound- or fluoroscopy-guided cortisone injections
- Anti-inflammatory medications and weight-bearing assistive devices
When Surgery May Be Considered
For patients with end-stage arthritis where walking and sleep are severely compromised, Dr. Dalal provides Mako robotic-assisted hip replacement. The robotic technology enables customized 3D implant positioning and precise leg length alignment.
Related Treatments & Procedures
Learn more about treatments related to hip pain:
Why Choose Tri-State Orthopaedics
With advanced training in hip reconstruction and early adoption of robotic surgical systems in the Memphis area, Dr. Dalal combines modern technological precision with compassionate, unhurried patient care.
Our Office Locations
Dr. Dalal sees patients for hip pain evaluation at both of our Mid-South offices: