5 Fixes for When Your Hip Pain Hands You Headaches

So, your hip pain probably won’t literally give you headaches (if it does, make an appointment with your doctor ASAP), but it sure can make daily life more difficult in so many ways. Walking your dog may get more tedious, if not excruciating, with each step. Sitting at your desk might drive a pain that seems like it overtakes your entire side, or falling asleep at night may seem impossible due to discomfort stemming from your hip. There are many causes of hip pain, from bursitis to arthritis, so some of the following methods may work better for some people than others, depending upon the root cause of the pain.

1. Check Your Alignment

Sometimes, pain can stem from poor posture. The first step to fixing it, even if it has already created a deeper issue that needs further attention from a doctor, is to become aware of your posture, and how you use your body throughout the day. Learn how to properly

standstraight, and don’t forget to pay attention to the way you

sit down, and even the position you sleep in.

2. Make Sure You Have Proper Support

If your hip pain is making it hard for you to find comfort when you’re resting or moving around, make sure you’ve equipped yourself with the best support possible. For example, when you sleep, use support pillows under your knees if you rest on your back, or between your knees if you are a side-sleeper. When you drive, or sit in the office, use a cushion for extra padding. A memory foam material may give you the comfort you seek while providing proper support.

3. Work on Strengthening Surrounding Areas

Often, the first step of overcoming hip pain is visiting a physical therapist to discuss a routine of exercises that target the adjacent areas. Strengthening these areas will help take the load off the aggrieved part. As you get stronger, you should notice the pain becomes more tolerable. It’s important to talk to your doctor, or a physical therapist, before you begin an exercise regimen. Your doctor may recommend diagnostic testing, like X-rays, before you start.

4. Head to the Store

To get through the day, you may need some help from your pharmacist or doctor. Over-the-counter pain relievers can take the edge off, so you can handle your day a bit easier. If you find yourself reaching for the pain reliever often, talk to your doctor to determine the best course of action in managing your pain.

5. Stay Active

When you’re in pain, it’s tempting to stay put if you’ve found a tolerable position. While sometimes, to heal properly, the body does need rest; oftentimes, it’s important to stay active. You don’t have to run a marathon, but short walks can help keep strength in the area. Talk to your doctor or physical therapist to create a plan that keeps you active long into the future. If you suffer from hip pain, and you want help creating a plan that will help you diagnose, manage, and heal it, contact Premier Pain & Spine today.