Your hip joint is one of the most important joints in your body as it helps you to walk, run, stand, and jump. Thus disruptions to this joint, such as stiff hips, can severely impact one’s ability to engage in everyday tasks. Stiff hips are characterized by an uncomfortable inability to move your hip joint as easily as you once did. Stiff hips can result from a prolonged lack of movement, a minor injury, or a chronic condition.
Luckily, there are multiple treatment options for stiff hips, most of which can be done at home! Here are some of the best ways to relieve stiff hips:
- Ice and Heat Therapy
A combination of hot and cold therapy can help to relieve pain and stiffness in your hip joint. Ice therapy works to reduce inflammation that may be contributing to stiffness in your hip. Additionally, heat therapy will help to relax the stiff muscles and encourage blood flow to the joint. - Hip Stretches and Exercises
Performing physical and occupational exercises and stretches at home can be a great way to work out and stretch your hip muscles. Additionally, physical activities such as yoga or pilates help to decrease any built-up tension in your stiff hips. - Medication
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to reduce inflammation helping to alleviate any pain or discomfort associated with your stiff hips. - Rest
While it is important to work your hip so that you can regain flexibility in your stiff hip, rest is still very important especially if your stiffness was caused by an injury. An injured stiff hip needs time to heal so making sure to maintain the right balance of rest and stretching is key to recovery.
Stiff hips are extremely common in people of all ages so knowing ways that you can alleviate your discomfort is key for you to live your day-to-day life. If you suffer from stiff hips, contact Dr. Frisch to see what he can do for you!
Dr. Frisch is a specialist orthopedic surgeon focusing on minimally invasive hip and knee joint replacement as well as complex primary and revision surgery. He believes in creating a very personalized experience with the highest level of service. For all appointments & inquiries, please contact our offices located in Rochester, River District, or Tawas City, MI.
