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Hip & Pelvis Conditions: X-ray Findings, Symptoms, and Non-Surgical Treatments

Introduction

Hip and pelvis pain is often caused by arthritis, femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), labral tears, or degenerative changes. X-ray findings can provide insight into the underlying problem, but the terms can be confusing.

This guide explains common X-ray findings, what they mean, and non-surgical treatment options available in Singapore.

Common X-ray Findings in Hip & Pelvis Conditions

1. Joint Space Narrowing

  • Definition: The gap between the hip bones and the acetabulum (hip socket) is reduced.

  • Implication: Suggests cartilage loss or early arthritis.

  • Symptoms: Groin pain, stiffness, pain with walking or climbing stairs.

  • Treatment: Physiotherapy to strengthen hip muscles, Regenerix Gold for cartilage support, HotHeal Therapy for pain relief, and MRI at The Pain Relief Clinic for further evaluation.

2. Osteophytes (Bone Spurs)

  • Definition: Bony projections at the edge of the hip joint.

  • Implication: Can restrict movement and cause pain with rotation or bending.

  • Symptoms: Clicking, stiffness, or localized pain.

  • Treatment: Shockwave therapy, physiotherapy, and HotHeal Therapy for symptom relief. MRI if bone spurs affect labral tissue.

3. Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)

  • Definition: Abnormal contact between the femoral head and acetabulum.

  • Implication: Can lead to labral tears and early arthritis.

  • Symptoms: Hip/groin pain during deep flexion or twisting, limited range of motion.

  • Treatment: Physiotherapy for hip mobility and strength, HotHeal or shockwave therapy for pain, MRI to assess cartilage and labral damage.

4. Labral Calcification / Tear

  • Definition: Calcium deposits or degenerative changes in the hip labrum.

  • Implication: May cause clicking, catching, or groin pain.

  • Symptoms: Pain with hip rotation, instability sensations.

  • Treatment: Shockwave therapy, physiotherapy for hip stabilization, Regenerix Gold, MRI to confirm labral integrity.

5. Sacroiliac Arthrosis

  • Definition: Degenerative changes in the sacroiliac (SI) joint connecting the pelvis and spine.

  • Implication: Can cause lower back or buttock pain.

  • Symptoms: Pain during standing, walking, or bending.

  • Treatment: Physiotherapy for core and pelvic stabilization, HotHeal Therapy for SI joint discomfort, shockwave therapy for chronic pain, MRI if symptoms persist.

6. Acetabular Dysplasia

  • Definition: Shallow hip socket leading to altered joint mechanics.

  • Implication: Increases risk of arthritis and labral tears.

  • Treatment: Physiotherapy to improve hip mechanics, supplements like Regenerix Gold, MRI to assess cartilage and labrum.

7. Leg Length Discrepancy (Functional or Structural)

  • Definition: One leg shorter than the other, sometimes visible on X-ray.

  • Implication: Can cause hip, knee, or back pain.

  • Treatment: Physiotherapy for muscle balance, orthotic support, and gait correction.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

  • Physiotherapy (The Pain Relief Practice): Strengthens hip and core muscles, restores mobility, and reduces joint stress.

  • Shockwave Therapy: Alleviates chronic pain, especially from bone spurs or soft tissue irritation.

  • HotHeal Therapy: Combines manual therapy with radiofrequency for tissue healing and circulation.

  • Regenerix Gold: Supports cartilage, labral, and joint health for long-term protection.

  • MRI (Pain Relief Clinic): Provides high-resolution imaging of cartilage, labrum, and soft tissue when X-rays are insufficient.

When Should You Consider an MRI?

  • Persistent hip or pelvis pain despite non-surgical management.

  • Pain or catching sensations during hip rotation.

  • Suspected labral tear, FAI, or cartilage damage.

  • Pre-surgical assessment if conservative care is not enough.

Key Takeaway

Hip and pelvis X-ray findings such as joint space narrowing, osteophytes, FAI, labral calcification, sacroiliac arthrosis, and acetabular dysplasia help identify the source of pain.

Non-surgical therapies including physiotherapy, shockwave, HotHeal, and Regenerix Gold can improve function and reduce discomfort. MRI at The Pain Relief Clinic provides detailed imaging for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.