Lockdown restrictions in Texas have fluctuated over the past month, but most residents are erring on the side of caution and maintaining strict social distancing. If you’ve been spending the majority of your time at home, you’ve probably noticed an increase in body stiffness, aches, or discomfort.
The lockdown has triggered an increase in sedentary lifestyles, i.e. a lifestyle that involves minimal exercise and excessive sitting or lying down. These habits, among many other reasons, are directly correlated to the onset of hip pain.
If you’ve been struggling to figure out why you’ve been experiencing hip pain during the lockdown, we’ve found four causes that contribute to your condition.
1. Reduced Movement and Stretching
As remote working becomes the new norm, people have been spending an excessive amount of time cooped up inside. This isn’t just common among young adults; senior citizens have also adopted a sedentary lifestyle.
If you’ve been sitting or lying down more than you’ve been standing, walking, or jogging, it’s possible that you’ve caused damage to the delicate structures of and around your hips. Excessive sitting decreases hip strength and over time as you continue to not exercise, these signs of damage can trigger mild to chronic pain that progressively worsens if left untreated.
2. An Unattended Core Muscle Injury
Hip injuries can be extremely difficult to detect at times. In some cases, people sustain significant hip injuries without even realizing it. Over time, these internal injuries begin to manifest in the form of a throbbing sensation or mild aches that gradually develop into excruciating pain.
If you’ve noticed a sudden increase in hip pain, you may have sustained a core muscle injury like a dislocation, strain, or hip labral tear, among others. Consult a trained physician as soon as you can to get the pain diagnosed and treated.
3. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of hip pain. While it can be easily managed with physical therapy and/or medication, the ongoing lockdown has made things extremely difficult for patients.
If left unattended, osteoarthritis may worsen over time and trigger joint stiffness, swelling, and inflammation. As the cartilage gradually breaks down, you may experience a sharp pain. Over time, there is also a risk of developing a deformity.
It’s important to note that individuals over the age of 60 are more prone to developing the condition. If you’re experiencing the symptoms mentioned above, see an orthopedic specialist who can accurately diagnose and treat the condition before it worsens.
4. Non-Ergonomic Support
Spending an excessive amount of time sitting on inadequately cushioned surfaces can trigger delicate pressure points and cause hip soreness. The pain may radiate to your thighs or legs.
While taking breaks is important, having ergonomic support can make a huge difference. A mattress that’s too soft or too hard can cause more damage than good. Instead, try a memory foam mattress or topper that can relieve pressure points and protect your hip joints.
Make sure you have proper back support to strengthen your posture. This simple change in lifestyle can go a long way in preventing hip aches that originate from poor spine health.
If you’re struggling with persistent hip pain, we can help. Our orthopedic specialists and surgeons have extensive experience in treating hip joint pain. For more information, visit our Orthopedic Center of Excellence where you can find a doctor that’s right for you. Simply visit our site and make your appointment directly with your doctor. We also offer physical therapy services for hip pain in Webster, Galveston, South Houston, Clear Lake, and League City.