Hip pain up to the ankle: where does it come from? (what to do ?)

La hip pain can be a debilitating experience. It may be difficult to walk, sit, or even sleep. In some cases, the pain may extend to the ankle. So where does this pain come from?

And most importantly, what can you do to fix it? Keep reading to find out!

hip anatomy

La hip is a ball and socket joint which helps support body weight and allows for a wide range of motion. The cavity, or acetabulum, is formed by the union of three bones: the ilium, the ischium and the pubis.

The ball, or femoral head, is connected to the rest of the femur (thigh bone) by a neck. The joint is held together by a strong fibrous capsule, ligaments and muscles.

La flexibility of the joint between the ball and the cavity allows for a wide range of motion, including flexion (bending), extension (straightening), internal rotation (inward rotation) and external rotation (outward rotation).

However, this relatively large range of motion makes the hip joint vulnerable to joint instabilities (such as dislocations in extreme cases). To protect the joint, it is surrounded by a thick layer of cartilage called articular cartilage, as well as a labrum.

Cartilage acts as a cushion between bones and helps absorb shock. Also, a lubricating substance called synovial fluid helps reduce friction within the joint. Together, these structures allow the hip joint to function smoothly and with minimal wear.

Hip pain: definition

La hip pain is a general term that can refer to a number of different conditions affecting the hip joint. It can range from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing pain.

When any of the structures mentioned in the anatomy section are damaged or malfunction, they can cause pain in and around the hip.

The pain can be felt in the hip itself, in the groin area, in the thigh or even up to the ankle. In some cases, the pain may be accompanied by stiffness, swelling, or bruising.

La hip pain can range from mild pain to severe, debilitating pain. It can be a short-term problem or a chronic condition. Treatment depends on the cause of the pain and the severity of the symptoms.

Hip pain that radiates to the ankle: What causes?

Referred pain is often described as pain that begins in one area of ​​the body and then spreads to another area.

In the case of a hip pain that radiates to the ankle, the pain usually originates in the hip and then travels down the leg to the ankle.

There are a number of possible causes for the hip pain that radiates to the ankle, including:

Sciatica

La sciatica is a condition that occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back to the foot, is compressed or irritated. When this nerve is compressed or irritated, it can cause hip pain which radiates to the ankle.

Lumbosciatica

La lumbosciatica is a condition that results in lower back pain radiating to hip and up ankle. This condition is caused by irritation of a nerve in the lower back. Symptoms of sciatica are as follows:

• Hip pain that radiates to the ankle;
• Leg weakness;
• Numbness or tingling of the leg.

Herniated disc

A hip pain that radiates to the ankle may be caused by a herniated disc. This is a condition in which the soft center of the disc protrudes through a tear in the outer layer.

The discs act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae and when damaged they can cause pain, numbness and tingling.

Bursitis

Bursitis is a condition that occurs when the fluid-filled sacs that protect bones and tendons become inflamed. This inflammation can cause pain and stiffness, especially around joints such as the shoulder, elbow, hip, and knee.

Arthrose

La hip pain is a common symptom of osteoarthritis. Although the pain initially seems to radiate from the hip, it is often referred to as "osteoarthritis" when it is actually coming from the ankle.

The pain may intensify with activity and be accompanied by swelling, stiffness and/or redness. Hip arthritis is a degenerative disease that can be caused by wear and tear on the joint, injury or infection.

Dhip pain: THINGS TO DO

La hip pain that radiates to the ankle can be a frustrating and debilitating condition. The first step in treatment is to clarify the diagnosis by medical examination and imaging in some cases.

Once the diagnosis is confirmed, there are a number of basic solutions that can provide relief. Conservative options include:

• Medications ;
• Weight control;
• Application of heat and/or ice;

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• Correction of muscle imbalances;
• Kinesitherapy (physiotherapy) and osteopathy;
• The integration of cardiovascular activity;
• Accessories and products

• acupressure mat

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• massage gun

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• Foam roller (sport massage roller)

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• Compex and TENS (electrical stimulation)

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More invasive treatments, such as infiltration or surgery, may be needed in some cases.

Alternative treatments such as acupuncture, homeopathy or osteopathic care may also be effective in treating hip pain.

What about natural remedies?

Although they are not supported by solid scientific evidence, several natural products and home remedies are used to treat various body pains, especially for their anti-inflammatory power.

Here is a non-exhaustive list of plants and essential oils that are effective in controlling pain and inflammation:

• Turmeric : Thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powers very powerful, turmeric is one of the most used plants in a culinary and therapeutic context. The composition of turmeric is essentially made of essential oils, vitamins (B1, B2, B6, C, E, K) and trace elements. But it is to its composition rich in curcumin and curcuminoids that we owe them and calm skin of this spice.

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• Ginger : In addition to the special flavor it brings to the kitchen and its aphrodisiac properties, ginger is a root well known for its anti-inflammatory powers. THE gingerol gives it its anti-inflammatory action. It is an active component acting on the inflammatory pain related to chronic joint inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, rheumatic diseases, etc. It has been proven that this active element is also effective in acting on the inflammation linked to arthritis and sciatica. Ginger also has other benefits thanks to its high potassium content and its richness in trace elements (calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium) and vitamins (provitamin and vitamin B9).

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• Omega-3s : Omega-3 are polyunsaturated fatty acids that play a very important role in the functioning of our body. They are provided by food in three natural forms: docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), alpha linolenic acid (ALA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Beyond their action on the brain and the cardiovascular system, omega-3s prove very effective against inflammation. Indeed, they have the ability to act on the inflammatory mechanisms in osteoarthritis by slowing down cartilage destruction, thus they reduce the intensity of osteoarthritis pain. Since sciatica is most often linked to inflammation secondary to a herniated disc, it can also respond to omega-3s if you consume them regularly. 

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• Lemon eucalyptus: Eucalyptus is a plant most often used in the form of herbal tea or essential oil. She would have anti-inflammatory effects which give it the ability to act on the bone and joint pain in general and the pain of sciatica in particular.

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• wintergreen : Wintergreen is a shrub from which a very interesting essential oil is extracted. It is one of the most used essential oils in aromatherapy. This oil extracted from the shrub bearing the same name, is used in massage to relieve sciatica and act like a analgesic. Indeed, it provides a heating effect thanks to its ability toactivate blood circulation locally.

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Remember that these products do not replace medical treatment. Do not hesitate to consult for support adapted to your condition.

In conclusion, hip pain that radiates to the ankle can be difficult to manage, but with the help of a medical professional, relief can be found.