The Hip Joint

The hip is a ball-and-socket joint, connecting the head of the thigh bone (femur) to the socket of the pelvis (acetabulum). The joint is lined with cartilage called the acetabular labrum, which cushions the socket. As a weight-bearing joint, the hip is susceptible to injuries and disorders, including strains, fractures, and arthritic changes, often caused by overuse, accidents, or age-related wear.

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What is Bursitis of the Hip?

Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursae—small fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction between tendons, muscles, and bones. In trochanteric (hip) bursitis, the bursa at the femoral head becomes inflamed, causing significant pain. Common causes include gluteal tendon injuries, leg length discrepancies, or iliotibial band syndrome.

What is Arthritis of the Hip?

Arthritis involves the degeneration of cartilage, which normally cushions the joint. This leads to inflammation, pain, and swelling. While age is a common factor, arthritis can also result from traumatic injury or autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Severe arthritis may cause bone deformity and significant disability.

What is Osteoporosis of the Hip?

Osteoporosis is a condition where the hip bone loses density, becoming porous, weak, and prone to fractures. A less severe form of this condition is known as osteopenia.

What is Avascular Necrosis of the Hip?

Avascular necrosis (osteonecrosis) occurs when bone tissue dies due to insufficient blood supply. This can cause small fractures that may eventually lead to bone collapse, most often in the hip. Risk factors include fractures, dislocations, excessive alcohol use, long-term corticosteroid therapy, and certain diseases such as sickle cell anemia, diabetes, lupus, or HIV. Medications for osteoporosis or bone cancer and radiation therapy can also increase risk.

What is a Hip Pointer?

A hip pointer is a bruise on the iliac crest of the hip, usually caused by a strong impact, such as in contact sports. It can cause bleeding in the hip abductor muscles and make leg movement painful. Recovery typically takes 4–6 weeks.

What is Hip Dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia, or developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), refers to an abnormal formation of the hip joint, resulting in misalignment. It can affect the femoral head, the acetabulum, or both. Often congenital or developing in early childhood, it can be effectively treated with bracing if diagnosed at birth or shortly thereafter.

What is Snapping Hip Syndrome?

Snapping hip syndrome, also called “dancer’s hip,” frequently affects athletes and dancers. It causes a snapping sensation—sometimes with a popping sound—when a muscle or tendon moves over a bony prominence, usually the femoral trochanter. Less commonly, it may result from labral tears. While sometimes painless, it can lead to pain, weakness, and reduced function in highly active individuals.

Treatment of Hip Pain and Disorders

Traditional medicine often focuses on relieving pain and stiffness without addressing underlying instability or tissue damage in the hip. Over time, this can lead to further degeneration and arthritis, often culminating in hip surgery or replacement.

At Michigan Integrative Health, we focus on healing and repairing damage to the hip’s muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and labrum. Our treatments aim to stabilize the hip and reduce joint inflammation without drugs or surgery. During your consultation, exam, and assessment, we determine if you are a candidate for care. You are only accepted if your initial visit shows potential for increased hip motion, improved strength, or reduced pain.

Through regenerative medicine, we offer proven therapies to repair and restore hip function, helping patients regain mobility and reduce discomfort.