Hip pain can be caused by a variety of things. A hip fracture can cause immense amounts of pain and be quite debilitating. In fact, fewer than 50% of patients who suffer from hip pain due to fracture return to their former level of activity. Surgery is needed to repair a hip fracture and complications are highly possible.

Another cause of hip pain is insufficient blood flow to the hip. Aseptic necrosis, a bone condition that happens as a result of poor blood supply to the hip bone, can cause pain, even death. Arthritis, osteoporosis, trochanteric bursitis, and tendonitis can all cause hip pain, too.

How to Avoid Hip Pain

Now that you know what causes hip pain, here are a few effective ways to avoid hip pain and live a healthier, more productive life:

>Warm Up, Cool Down

Always warm up before exercising and cool down after you are finished. Stretching your hips, thighs, and lower back can help you avoid future hip pain.

>No Falls

If possible avoid falls, especially if you are over the age of 55.

>Activity Avoidance

Try to avoid certain activities that raise one hip above the other for long periods of time, such as running or jogging on uneven surfaces. To avoid hip pain from jogging, run on a treadmill instead of running on pavement.

>Hip Pads

If you are involved in a contact sport, like football or hockey, wear protective hip pads. Also, for those who are older and at high risk for hip fractures, wear hip pads with streamline designs.

>Osteoporosis Education

Osteoporosis can cause serious hip pain. Learn more about the prevention of osteoporosis. A good site to visit is The National Osteoporosis Foundation. This online site is a wealth of information about the painful condition.

If you experience severe hip pain, or have hip pain after a fall or injury, visit your doctor immediately. Suffering from hip pain can be easily avoided if you play it safe, use common sense, and educate yourself about its causes and prevention methods.