| The
hip is a ball-and-socket joint. The head of the femur (thigh
bone) is the ball and the acetabulum (indentation on the
pelvic bone). The femur is the longest and strongest bone
in the body. The hip bears approximately one-third of a
person’s weight when standing.
The
hip joint is very stable. There has to be an incredible
force applied in order to dislocate this joint. Even with
its incredible stability, the hip is susceptible to arthritis
(inflammation of the joint) and osteoporosis (decrease in
bone density). Many elderly patients diagnosed with osteoporosis
may fall and suffer a broken hip. Since the hip bears almost
all of an individual’s weight, it may fracture due to it’s
weaken state. So it is not clear if the fracture is a result
or a cause of the fall.
Low back problems
may refer pain to the hip area. There are muscles that attach
to the five lumbar vertebrae or iliac crests (the pelvic
area) and the femur (psoas major, gluteus major, gluteus
minor, gluteus medius, and quadratus lumborum). When these
muscles develop a spasm (uncomfortable contraction of muscles),
they tend to pull on their insertions producing pain or
discomfort. When this occurs a subluxation (misalignment
of a joint) may be a result.
The majority
of the population seeks medical help for a quick fix for
pain relief. The medications that are prescribed help diminish
the pain but do not treat the underlying cause of the dysfunction.
Dr. Cady looks for these causes.
Dr. Cady will
perform an initial consultation and a detailed medical history.
After the physical, orthopedic, and chiropractic examinations,
radiographs of the area of chief complaint may be warranted
for further diagnosis. Based on the findings Dr. Cady gives
a report of findings and a treatment plan including possible
spinal manipulation, physical therapy or massage when indicated.
Referrals to other practitioners are made if necessary.
Call
us at 408-739-2273 to make an appointment
today.
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