ACUPUNCTURE FOR HIP PAIN

Hip pain can make even simple everyday activities uncomfortable. Walking, climbing stairs, getting in and out of the car or sleeping on your side can all become more difficult when your hip is painful.

Hip pain can affect people of all ages. It may develop gradually over time, follow an injury or be associated with changes within the joint or surrounding muscles and tendons.

At LB Acupuncture, I'll take the time to understand where your pain is, how it started and how it's affecting your everyday life. This helps me build a clearer picture of your symptoms before deciding on the most appropriate treatment approach.

What is hip pain?

The hip is a strong ball-and-socket joint that supports much of your body's weight during standing, walking and movement.

Hip pain can develop for many reasons, including osteoarthritis, tendon problems, bursitis, muscle strain or injury.

Some people notice pain mainly when they're active, while others experience stiffness first thing in the morning, discomfort after sitting for long periods or pain that disturbs their sleep.

Common symptoms of hip pain

Symptoms may include:

• Pain in the hip, groin or buttock
• Pain that spreads into the thigh
• Stiffness, particularly after resting
• Difficulty walking or climbing stairs
• Pain when getting in and out of a car
• Discomfort when lying on the affected side
• Reduced movement or flexibility

Where you experience pain can sometimes give useful clues about which structures may be involved, although a proper assessment may be needed to establish the cause.

How does Traditional Chinese Medicine view hip pain?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), pain may be viewed as a disruption in the smooth flow of qi and blood through the channels around the affected area.

From a TCM perspective, factors such as injury, repetitive strain and overuse may contribute, while other patterns may also be considered depending on your symptoms and overall health.

During your consultation, I'll consider your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle and general health as part of your Traditional Chinese Medicine assessment.

Can acupuncture help with hip pain?

Many people choose acupuncture as part of their approach to managing hip pain. Research suggests acupuncture may help with pain and function in some musculoskeletal conditions, although the evidence varies depending on the underlying cause of the hip pain and results differ between individuals.

For some people, I may also recommend electroacupuncture where I feel it's appropriate.

Acupuncture can also be used alongside physiotherapy, exercise or other treatment recommended by your healthcare professional.

What happens during your first appointment?

Your first appointment will usually last up to 90 minutes.

We'll discuss:

• When your hip pain started
• Where you feel the pain
• What makes it better or worse
• Previous injuries or treatment
• Your work, hobbies and activity levels
• Your general health and lifestyle

I'll also carry out a Traditional Chinese Medicine assessment, which includes checking your pulse and looking at your tongue.

Following your consultation, if appropriate, you'll receive your first acupuncture treatment using sterile, single-use needles.

How many treatments will I need?

There's no set number of treatments. This will depend on factors such as what's contributing to your hip pain, how long you've had your symptoms and how you respond to treatment.

We'll review your progress together and discuss what's appropriate as your treatment progresses.

Lisa's Advice

Hip pain can sometimes change the way you walk, which may place additional strain on other areas such as your knee, lower back or opposite hip.

Keeping gently active can often be helpful, although the right type and amount of activity will depend on what's causing your symptoms.

If your hip pain follows a significant fall, you're unable to bear weight on your leg, or you develop severe pain with swelling, fever or sudden deformity, seek urgent medical assessment.

Why choose LB Acupuncture?

I understand how frustrating hip pain can be when it begins to affect your mobility, sleep and everyday activities.

At LB Acupuncture, you'll have time to talk through your symptoms in a calm and welcoming environment. I'll explain your treatment and answer any questions you may have along the way.

My clinic is based in Melbourne, Derbyshire, and welcomes patients from Derby, Castle Donington, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Swadlincote, Burton upon Trent and the surrounding areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can acupuncture help hip arthritis?

Some people with arthritis choose acupuncture as part of their approach to managing pain. Whether it's appropriate for you will depend on your symptoms and overall health, which we'll discuss during your consultation.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture needles are extremely fine, and most people experience very little discomfort. Some people notice a mild aching, tingling or heavy sensation, while many find treatment relaxing.

Can I continue exercising?

In many cases, gentle movement can be helpful, although this depends on what's causing your hip pain. If you're already following an exercise programme provided by a physiotherapist or another healthcare professional, continue to follow their advice.

Book an Appointment

If hip pain is affecting your everyday life and you'd like to find out whether acupuncture may be suitable for you, please feel free to get in touch.

I'd be happy to answer any questions you may have or discuss your symptoms before booking an appointment.