Hip Surgery

Hip pain may result from a wide range of injuries and degenerative conditions that vary depending on a person’s age, activity level, and history of trauma or overuse. Common causes of hip pain include:

• femoroacetabular impingement (FAI)
• labral tears
• hip flexor tendinitis
• snapping hip syndrome
• hamstring tears
• trochanteric bursitis
• gluteus medius or minimus tendon tears

Accurate diagnosis begins with a detailed clinical evaluation by an experienced orthopedic specialist like Dr. Gazzaniga. This includes a comprehensive discussion of the patient’s symptoms, activity level, injury history, and the specific movements or positions that provoke pain. These details provide important insight into the likely source of the problem.

Dr. Gazzaniga will perform a focused physical examination to evaluate for swelling, tenderness, instability, limited range of motion, or signs of mechanical impingement. Specialized maneuvers help identify soft tissue and intra-articular injuries. Diagnostic imaging plays a critical role in confirming the underlying cause. X-rays are typically used first to assess bony anatomy, look for evidence of impingement or arthritis, and rule out fractures. If soft tissue damage is suspected, an MRI may be ordered to visualize the labrum, cartilage, tendons, and bursa around the hip. MRI provides detailed images essential for confirming the diagnosis and planning appropriate treatment.

Early diagnosis matters

Timely and accurate diagnosis is key to preventing further damage and facilitating a full recovery. Left untreated, many hip injuries can worsen over time, leading to chronic pain, limited mobility, and decreased performance in sports or daily life.