Inflammation of the Hip - What Can Help?

Inflammation of the hip is a problem far too common to ignore. It is one of the most difficult conditions to go through, as it is not only painful but can affect mobility as well. Here are some of the common conditions that cause hip inflammation and what can be done about it.

Arthritis. The most common cause for inflamed hips is arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is a difficult and debilitating disease characterized by pain, discomfort and stiffness not only of the hip, but the thigh, groin and lower back as well. Osteoarthritis is also a leading cause of hip inflammation, and is caused by the breakdown of cartilage in the joint of the pelvic area.

Hip Fractures. Breaking of the hip bone due to accidents or fall can lead to a painful inflammation in the hip area.

Strains. The muscles in the hip area can get strained due to sudden twist or pull. When the muscles get strained, an unbearable pain will be experienced, coupled with swelling and inflammation.

Bursitis. This condition is actually an inflammation of the bursa - the fluid-filled sacs founds in between muscles, joints and tendons. Inflammation of the bursa in the hip area causes severe pain during pressure or movement.

Treating Hip Inflammation through Conventional Medications

Traditional medications for hip inflammations and practically any type of inflammation include steroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and opiate-based pain relievers. Although they are effective in managing inflammation, they are oftentimes not advised for use on a long-term basis.

Continued use of NSAIDs may have the potential to increase the body's resistance so that higher doses will be needed for the effect to kick in. The use of steroids and opiate pain relievers can have the potential for serious side effects such as possible addiction as well as mood disorders and health problems.

Natural Help for Inflammation

If you want a natural way out of that painful inflammation of the hip, here are a few tips to follow, after consulting with your doctor and getting his or her agreement:

1. Go for an anti-inflammatory diet. Eat more fruits and vegetables, healthier fats, and legumes. Avoid foods rich in trans fats and saturated fatty acids as they can enhance the production of inflammatory prostaglandins.

2. Exercise regularly, if you can. Exercise will help keep the joints of the hip mobile, healthy and flexible.

3. Load on vitamins and minerals. Vitamins, minerals and antioxidants such as vitamins A, C, E, and zinc can help provide your body with the necessary nutrients to fight off free radicals that can attack the joints of the hip and create further damage.

Fish Oil for Hip Inflammation

Omega 3 fatty acids richly found in fish oils have a proven potential to help reduce inflammation of the hip in some healthy individuals. Fish oil contains essential fatty acids like DHA and EPA which are responsible for the production of anti-inflammatory prostaglandins that may help the body to ward off pain, swelling and inflammation. Fish oils also offers additional health benefits such as better heart health, etc.

Ask your doctor about pure concentrated fish oil to help relieve inflammation of the hip.