Inflammation around the hip capsule limits the ability of the femoral head to move freely, causing pain. This is commonly caused by injury or illness.

Otherwise known as wear and tear, osteoarthritis is the process of joint degeneration and loss of cartilage. This leads to increased friction and inflammation in the joint. Naturally, we adapt our posture and movements to lessen the pain. This results in the surrounding musculoskeletal structures tightening and working less efficiently, aggravating the condition.  Although osteoarthritis is a natural occurrence and cannot be stopped, it can be slowed down. Importantly, correcting surrounding misalignments and improving muscle strength can help to reduce pain and maintain hip function for longer.

The pelvic girdle supports everything that sits above and below it. It is the base of the spine and the structure from which the hips hang.  Crucially, the girdle needs to be stable enough when we sit, but also allow free movement of both the hips and the lower back.  It protects our lower internal organs and is the main support structure when growing / carrying a baby during pregnancy.  Therefore, it’s understandable how prone the pelvis is to stresses and strains.  Often, pelvic pain is referred to the hips as the hips overcompensate for a potential lack of movement in the pelvis.

“The foot bone’s connected to the…leg bone. The leg bone’s connected to the …knee bone. The knee bone’s connected to the …thigh bone. That’s how we do the skeleton dance!”