The Misdiagnosis of Hip Pain as Lumbar Spine Issues:

Did you know that up to 20% of hip pain cases are initially misdiagnosed as a lumbar spine issue. This often occurs because the symptoms between hip and back disorders can mirror and overlap. For this reason, it is critical to understand the reason behind hip pain and/or lower back pain. I do this by implementing more precise diagnostics and by careful, clinical evaluations.

 

Why is hip pain sometimes misdiagnosed as a lumbar spine issue?

The relationship between the lumbar spine and the hip joint is complex. They are interconnected anatomically and often share various functions such as walking, standing and sitting. The lower back and hip also share nerve pathways that can create similar patterns of pain in the lower back or hip. This means that pain or discomfort originating from a hip condition, can be perceived as lower back pain. The reverse can also be true, that a lower back condition is presented as hip pain.

 

Clinical Studies and Findings:

Studies have highlighted the prevalence of misdiagnosed hip pain: In this study:

How Often Is Low Back Pain Not Coming From the Back?

And in a more recent study:

Researchers found that up to 20% of patients initially diagnosed with lumbar spine pathology were later found to have hip-related issues as the primary source of their pain.

The delay in obtaining an accurate diagnosis often leads to ineffective treatments, prolonged suffering, and, in some cases, unnecessary spinal interventions.

 

How can you tell if my pain is caused by my hip and not my back?  

Key Indicators that your lower back pain is actually related to your hip:

  • Pain that is primarily located in the groin, front of the thigh, or deep in the hip joint.
  • Buttock pain that worsens with activity
  • Pain when sitting, squatting or running
  • Stiffness in the hip joint
  • Limited range of motion in the hip

 

How to determine if pain is related to the hip or the lower back:

To avoid misdiagnosing hip pain as a lumbar spine issue, Dr. Prem Ramkumar adopts a comprehensive diagnostic approach which includes:

  • A detailed patient history: Dr. Ramkumar discusses symptom onset, location of pain and aggravating factors.
  • Physical examination: Dr. Ramkumar conducts specific tests to assess the hip joint pathology and how the patient reacts as well as the strengths or weaknesses within the hip.
  • Diagnostic imaging: To get an accurate diagnosis, different imaging may be needed. These can include an x-ray, CT scan and/or an MRI.

 

See an orthopedic specialist!

Misdiagnosing hip pain as a lumbar spine issue can lead to ineffective treatments and prolonged suffering. Given that up to 20% of hip pain cases are initially mistaken for lumbar disorders, Dr. Prem Ramkumar uses a systematic, multidisciplinary approach for better, more accurate diagnosis. His proven success and extensive training allows for a more accurate diagnoses and a better patient outcome.