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During a hip exam, doctors ask basic questions, check for proper alignment, observe walking, and may order X-rays or MRI tests to diagnose hip problems. They may also check for signs of inflammation and tenderness and assess range of motion and symmetry. Imaging may be necessary for a diagnosis.
During your hip exam, expect your doctor to ask you a few basic questions. This can include whether you are currently in pain as well as the exact location and frequency of your pain. Your doctor may ask you about your range of motion. He will likely check for proper alignment by having you lie on your back while you take the measurements. Patients also often demonstrate walking during a hip exam and may need to get X-rays or MRI tests to diagnose hip problems.
If the reason for the hip exam is due to recurring or chronic hip pain, your doctor may need to do some initial tests. Before doing so, however, he will perform an observation and visual assessment. He can also check for signs of inflammation and tenderness surrounding the hip joint by gently pressing with his fingers. It will do this by evaluating your reaction to the pressure.
Your hip exam can be done by an orthopedic specialist or your primary care physician. In each case, you will be examined and observed in several respects, including walking at a slow pace, and walking at a brisk pace. You may also be asked to sit on a low stool or chair, as well as on an examination table, so the doctor can observe your posture. He will check for abnormalities that could be causing your hip problems.
When you visit your doctor for a hip exam, he’ll most likely ask you to take a few steps, then may do a comparison check of both hips. He’ll check to see how the affected hip differs from the unaffected one. Basically, it will look for any noticeable asymmetrical arrangements that are noticeable while you are standing or walking. He will also look for unusual movements, such as limping or shuffling, which could indicate muscle weakness or deterioration.
As you lay back on the table, your doctor may ask you to extend both legs while checking for symmetry. He may also ask you to bend your knee towards your chest. This will allow your doctor to see how smooth the motion is and how much range of motion you have in your hip joint. He may also ask you to move your leg in various directions.
If your doctor suspects a dislocation or fracture, they’ll need to get imaging to make the diagnosis. He may order x-rays which may show a fracture or broken bone. X-ray imaging will also show if the hip is dislocated. Also, your doctor may want to do a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) test.
MRI is a non-invasive method of scanning the body to see muscles, tendons, ligaments, and tissues that can’t be seen on an X-ray. With an MRI scan, your doctor will be able to determine if you have torn tendons or ligaments that are causing your hip pain or discomfort. It can also aid in the diagnosis of other medical conditions such as a mass or tumor. After making an assessment, your doctor will be able to prescribe the correct course of treatment.
