Cures for Catches in the Hip

Catching in your hip is often the result of an injury called a labral tear. A hip labral tear involves the tissue on the outside of your hip joint just above your thighbone. Labral tears are common in high-impact sports including hockey, soccer and football. You can also sustain a labral tear during participation in golf or ballet. Treatment and cures for catches of the hip largely depend on the severity of your injury and the recommendation of your doctor.

Physical Therapy

• Your doctor may prescribe physical therapy in order to help relieve the catching and pain that is occurring in your hip. A physical therapist will teach and supervise you as you participate in a variety of exercises. You will perform exercises that help to maximize the range of motion in your affected hip. You will also work to strengthen and increase the stability in your hip. After you complete physical therapy, your doctor will reevaluate you.

Medications

• To reduce pain caused by a labral tear, your doctor may prescribe the use of an anti-inflammatory medication. This drug may be an over-the-counter drug or prescription strength. Anti-inflammatory medications help to reduce pain and inflammation in your hip joint. Your doctor also may suggest an injection of corticosteroids. This can help to direct medication directly into your hip joint and provide relief of pain and inflammation.

Activity Modification

• Modifying your participation in various activities can also help to relieve catching in your hip. Your doctor may recommend that you change your regular exercise routine. If you participate in high-impact sports or exercise, your doctor may recommend participation in low-impact physical activity until your hip pain is gone. This may include cycling, swimming or using an elliptical machine. You may also be advised to rest when you experience hip pain. If you experience pain when sitting for long periods of time, your doctor may suggest getting up and moving around every once in a while.

Surgery

• Surgery is used as a last resort or in the event of a severe labral tear. Your doctor may perform open hip surgery or arthroscopic surgery, which involves a camera and small instruments inserted into your hip through small incisions. During surgery, your doctor will try to repair or remove the piece of damaged tissue in your hip. Surgery can help to reduce your pain and the catching in your hip. After surgery, you will likely undergo physical therapy. MayoClinic.com indicates that most individuals are able to return to their normal activities four to six months after having hip surgery.