New York Spine Institute Spine Services

What is Hip-Spine Syndrome?

What is hip-spine syndrome?
Peter G. Passias, M.D. FAAOS ORTHOPEDIC SPINE SURGEON

What is Hip-Spine Syndrome?

By: Peter G. Passias, M.D. FAAOS

Dr. Passias’ is a world leader in the surgical treatment of spinal disorders. His clinical practice focuses on the treatment of both degenerative conditions of the spine, with an emphasis on complex spinal deformities including thoracolumbar revision procedures and scoliosis.

If you’re suffering from hip pain, back pain or both, you’re not alone. Chronic lower back pain is common in the U.S., while spinal stenosis is becoming increasingly prevalent. Because the symptoms of these two conditions often overlap, it can be challenging for physicians to diagnose and treat the underlying cause of a patient’s pain. 

Hip-spine syndrome (HiSS) occurs when a patient experiences hip and spine pain in tandem. HiSS requires special awareness and a personalized treatment plan that targets both kinds of pain rather than one.

Hip-Spine Syndrome Symptoms

Hip osteoarthritis symptoms often include groin and hip pain. The pain is usually concentrated on the front of the hip, and walking might be difficult or impossible due to severely worn-out cartilage.

Patients with spinal stenosis also experience hip pain, though it is usually concentrated on the back of the hip or buttock area. Pain, weakness, tingling or a numbing sensation down the leg are also common.

Hip-Spine Syndrome Treatments

Because hip and spine pain merge for patients with HiSS, it can be challenging to diagnose and treat the underlying issue. A number of hip-spine syndrome treatments are available depending on the root cause of the pain, including:

  • Total hip arthroplasty: With a total hip replacement, a surgeon replaces damaged sections of the hip with a prosthetic implant.
  • Rehabilitation therapy: Physical and rehabilitation therapists help patients strengthen the core, hip abductors and hip girdles to ease their pain and provide them with better hip and spine function and range of motion.
  • Injection therapy: With injection therapy, a clinician injects medication directly into the pain site.
  • Spinal surgeries: In some cases, spinal surgeries — such as a hip replacement or lumbar spinal operation — are necessary.

How to Manage Hip-Spine Syndrome

Pain management is crucial for those with hip-spine syndrome. Most often, clinicians advise patients to pursue rehabilitation or try injection therapy or anti-inflammatory medications before considering more invasive treatments. In some cases, they might also recommend lifestyle changes, including weight loss or a new exercise routine. 

Spinal surgery and subsequent rehabilitation might be necessary for patients with advanced cases of progressive diseases. 

Contact the New York Spine Institute Today

At the New York Spine Institute, our board-certified orthopedic spine surgeons provide various innovative treatments to relieve pain caused by hip-spine syndrome. Call 1-888-444-NYSI today to learn more about hip-spine syndrome or schedule an appointment with one of our hip-spine syndrome specialists.