Lower Back vs. Hip Pain

Andre Jackoi, MD,

Orthopedic Surgery Specialist, comparing lower back pain to hip pain

What are the main symptoms of lower back conditions?

Usually, it’s pain across the small of the back, just above or at the waistline. Sometimes, the pain is linked to pain that may travel down the back or side of the leg into the buttock or all the way down to the foot (or anywhere in between). This may affect one or both legs.

What are the main symptoms of hip conditions?

Typically, the pain is located in the groin area, and includes an inability to lift the thigh, limited range of motion of the leg (particularly difficulty with crossing your legs), difficulty with going up and down stairs, walking abnormalities and pain.

Why can it be so difficult to tell the difference between hip and lower back pain?

Both low back (lumbar) and hip pathology may cause buttock pain, lateral hip pain or even groin pain. Sometimes, the lumbar may cause weakness with hip flexion just like hip pathology. They both may cause gait disturbances and a patient will often have both a hip and lumbar issue.

What are the best tools to diagnose these types of issues?

X-ray imaging is the gold standard for diagnosis. A detailed conversation with the patient about their complaints and injuries is always required. Lastly, and most importantly, a thorough physical examination is required for all patients to differentiate between the two areas of concern.

How can lifestyle and exercise changes affect lower back and hip health?

Obesity has been found to cause an increase in degeneration of the hips, knees and lower back. Lifestyle that combats sedentary routines does well to combat this. Diet certainly can be a component in the overall picture, but activity on a daily basis helps prevent many unhealthy components linked to a sedentary lifestyle.

Your pain condition or injury should first be brought to the attention of your primary care doctor, who can determine if you should be referred to a surgeon. For more information, visit AdventHealthKC.com, or to match with the right primary care physician for you, visit MyHealthKC.com.