Expert Hip Pain Treatment in Houston & Pearland | Dr. Burke Orthopedics

1. Hip Arthritis (Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis)

Arthritis is one of the leading causes of hip pain, with osteoarthritis developing from cartilage wear and tear, and rheumatoid arthritis resulting from inflammation caused by the immune system attacking joint linings.

Symptoms:

• Persistent hip stiffness, especially in the morning or after resting
• Swelling and tenderness around the hip joint
• Pain when walking, standing, or changing position

How Dr. Burke Treats It

Treatment begins with non-surgical care, including anti-inflammatory medication, targeted physical therapy, and lifestyle adjustments to reduce joint pressure. Weight management and low-impact exercises medication, targeted physical therapy, and lifestyle adjustments to reduce joint pressure. Weight management and low-impact exercises may also help maintain flexibility.

Surgical Options:

In advanced arthritis, Dr. Burke may perform hip resurfacing or total hip replacement surgery to restore smooth joint motion and relieve pain.

Recovery Timeline:

Non-surgical recovery: typically within weeks of treatment. Post-surgical recovery: 3–6 months, supported by a structured rehabilitation plan.

2. Hip Bursitis

Hip bursitis occurs when small, fluid-filled sacs (bursae) cushioning the hip become inflamed due to repetitive stress, overuse, or trauma.

Symptoms:

• Sharp or aching pain on the outer side of the hip
• Tenderness when pressing or lying on the affected hip
• Swelling and pain that worsens during activity

How Dr. Burke Treats It

Dr. Burke typically recommends rest, anti-inflammatory therapy, and targeted exercises to reduce pressure on the hip. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to decrease inflammation.

Surgical Options:

If bursitis is chronic or infected, Dr. Burke may perform bursal drainage or removal to provide lasting relief.

Recovery Timeline:

Non-surgical: 4–6 weeks. Surgical: 6–8 weeks, followed by strengthening therapy.

3. Hip Fractures

Hip fractures are serious and often result from falls or accidents. They require immediate orthopedic attention to prevent long-term mobility issues.

Symptoms:

• Severe hip or groin pain
• Inability to bear weight or move the leg
• Bruising, swelling, or deformity near the hip

How Dr. Burke Treats It

Dr. Burke uses X-rays or CT scans to assess the fracture and determine the best treatment approach. Stable fractures may be immobilized, while displaced fractures typically require surgery.

Surgical Options:

Procedures may include hip pinning, partial replacement, or total hip replacement, depending on the injury’s severity.

Recovery Timeline:

Recovery after hip surgery averages 6–12 weeks, with physical therapy being critical for rebuilding strength and balance.

4. Labral Tears

A labral tear involves damage to the cartilage rim that supports the hip socket, often caused by repetitive movement, sports injuries, or structural abnormalities.

Symptoms:

• Deep hip or groin pain, especially with movement
• Clicking, catching, or locking sensation in the hip
• Reduced range of motion and hip instability

How Dr. Burke Treats It

Dr. Burke typically begins with rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and custom physical therapy to strengthen hip stabilizing muscles.

Surgical Options:

In severe or persistent cases, Dr. Burke may perform arthroscopic labral repair to restore the joint’s natural alignment and stability.

Recovery Timeline:

Conservative recovery: 4–6 weeks. Post-surgery: 3–6 months, with guided physical therapy for full restoration.

5. Hip Tendonitis

Hip tendonitis occurs when tendons around the hip joint become inflamed from overuse or repetitive motion. This is common in athletes and individuals who perform frequent bending or lifting.

Symptoms:

• Pain and stiffness near the front or side of the hip
• Tenderness and swelling along the tendon
• Pain that worsens with stair climbing or squatting

How Dr. Burke Treats It

Treatment often includes rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and guided exercises to reduce strain and improve flexibility. Injections or ultrasound therapy may be used for inflammation control.

Surgical Options:

In chronic or severe cases, Dr. Burke may perform tendon debridement or repair surgery to restore tendon integrity.

Recovery Timeline:

Non-surgical: 4–6 weeks. Surgical: 3–6 months, depending on tendon healing and therapy adherence.

6. Hip Dislocation

Hip dislocation occurs when the femoral head (ball of the thigh bone) is forced out of its socket — usually following high-impact trauma.

Symptoms:

• Intense hip pain and visible deformity
• Inability to move or bear weight
• Possible numbness or tingling due to nerve compression

How Dr. Burke Treats It

Dr. Burke performs a closed reduction procedure to gently reposition the joint. Afterward, immobilization and physical therapy help restore strength and alignment.

Surgical Options:

In unstable or recurrent dislocations, reconstructive surgery may be performed to repair damaged ligaments or bone.

Recovery Timeline:

Non-surgical recovery: 6–8 weeks. Surgical: 3–6 months, depending on severity and rehabilitation success.

7. Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)

FAI occurs when excess bone growth around the hip joint causes friction during movement, leading to cartilage or labrum damage.

Symptoms:

• Pain in the hip or groin during motion
• Stiffness and decreased flexibility
• Catching or locking feeling in the hip

How Dr. Burke Treats It

Mild FAI can often be managed with activity modification, stretching therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications to improve range of motion and reduce pain.

Surgical Options:

If pain persists, arthroscopic bone reshaping may be performed to eliminate impingement and protect the joint.

Recovery Timeline:

Non-surgical recovery: 6–8 weeks. Surgical recovery: 3–6 months, with rehabilitation to restore strength and flexibility.

8. Hip Sprains and Strains

Hip sprains and strains involve overstretching or tearing of the muscles and ligaments around the joint, often caused by sudden twisting or overexertion.

Symptoms:

• Pain, swelling, and bruising around the hip
• Difficulty moving or bearing weight
• Weakness or instability in the affected area

How Dr. Burke Treats It

Dr. Burke often recommends the R.I.C.E. method, anti-inflammatory therapy, and rehabilitative exercises to restore strength and function. Immobilization may be used for severe cases.

Surgical Options:

Surgery is rarely necessary but may be required for major ligament or muscle tears that fail to heal with conservative care.

Recovery Timeline:

Non-surgical recovery: 4–6 weeks. Surgical recovery: up to 3–6 months, with therapy ensuring complete return of strength.

Why Patients Across Houston & Pearland Trust Dr. Burke Orthopedics

• Board-certified orthopedic surgeon with decades of expertise in hip surgery and regenerative medicine
• Comprehensive, compassionate care — from diagnosis to recovery — in one convenient location
• Evidence-based, patient-focused treatment plans tailored to your condition
• Trusted by patients across Houston, Pearland, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas