When is PT not appropriate for hip pain?

In some cases, patients with hip pain will be referred to a different provider. While this is rare, we want to be certain we, as physical therapists, are able to help.

Some of the symptoms we look for include:

• Fever, chills, night sweats (increased risk of infection or cancer)
• Weight loss (concern of cancer or infection)
• Recent infection (increased risk of infection)

Medication-specific concerns include:

• Steroids (risk of osteoporosis)
• Anti-coagulants (risk of bleeding)
• Immunosuppressants (risk of infections)

Sometimes, the digestive and renal/urinary systems can refer pain to the hip region. In these cases, we look for symptoms associated with food consumption such as recent weight change, changes in bowel habits and/or pain associated with urination.

Hip fractures can occur in older people and in those with a compromised bone density. Symptoms include pain around the hip and difficulty bearing weight. In addition to age, risk factors include osteoporosis, long-term use of certain medications such as steroids, high alcohol consumption and cancer. Stress fractures can occur from repetitive force, such as running long distances. This is more common in patients with compromised bone density.

Related Articles