Are you wondering if you're overreacting about your chronic hip pain? Perhaps it will resolve with medication or heating pads. It's normal to feel aches and pains as we age, but it may be time to see an orthopedist if the pain doesn't quickly resolve. So here are a few tips to help you decide when to book an appointment with an orthopedic doctor in Raleigh, NC, for that chronic hip pain.
Tips from an Orthopedic Doctor: When to Seek Help
Are Your Everyday Tasks Affected?
It's normal to experience some hip pain if you go out for that two-hour walk. However, if you've only been following your normal daily activities and pain is still present, an underlying condition may need to be diagnosed. For example, saying you pulled a muscle when you picked up a box, but did you really, or is it something more chronic? If everyday tasks are affected, you need to seek help.
Experiencing Tingling or Numbness
Experiencing tingling or numbness in any part of the body, including the hips, is not normal. Over time this condition can worsen and even cause loss of movement or present difficulties when walking. However, a proper diagnosis of hip numbness or tingling can prevent you from suffering from a degenerative hip condition. Therefore, it's crucial to diagnose this condition immediately.
Have You Experienced an Injury?
Many minor injuries resolve on their own. For example, sometimes, we get out of bed the wrong way and pull a muscle that quickly heals. But suppose you've recently fallen and experienced hip pain lasting longer than 48 hours. In that case, you should book an appointment with an orthopedic doctor to ensure nothing is broken and that any torn tendons or ligaments will adequately heal.
Persistent Joint Pain
Joint pain can be triggered by a wide range of factors: age, injury, repetitive stress injury, but it should also be examined by a doctor if it persists for longer than a couple of weeks. You may have an inflammatory disorder like osteoarthritis or another persistent condition that won't resolve on its own.
Orthopedic Doctor
If chronic hip pain affects your life for longer than you expect, book a consultation with Dr. Dan Albright. It is possible to have an effective orthopedic treatment plan tailored to your specific needs resulting in better movement and improved quality of life. Call 919-863-6808 and schedule an appointment today.
