Physical Exam of Hip Pain
A physical examination is crucial in diagnosing almost everything, from skin rash to cancer. When we talk about physical exams, it includes looking at your body, listening to your heart, lungs, and abdomen, and feeling your muscles, bones, joints, and skin. Doctors will be able to detect hip problems and a hidden underlying disease by performing these maneuvers. So, even if they go to examine another part of your body, maybe that’s part of the plan to rule out one or various diseases.
One of the first things your doctor will check is your gait stability and stance. Sometimes they do that as you’re walking to meet them and might not tell you to walk around the room once again.
Examining your gait means examining the pattern you use to walk. It can help doctors determine if you have a problem with your hips because this articulation stabilizes your upper body and gives an impulse when walking.
Additionally, as a part of your physical exam, the doctor may perform a series of maneuvers or ask you to do certain movements. For instance:
- Modified Trendelenburg test: The Trendelenburg test is used to assess muscle tightness and musculoskeletal pain. There is a modified version of this test that evaluates the knee and the hip simultaneously. The doctor will ask you to stand looking at the wall and lift one of your legs. He will look at how the hip moves in response.
- Hip range of motion tests: During the physical exam, your doctor will also check the range of motion in your hip joint. He would move your leg or ask you to do it yourself. This will give the doctor information about the nature of pain, whether it is accompanied by swelling or movement limitations in your hip. Report pain, difficulty moving your articulation, and any sensation you experience during this test.