Work-related hip injuries can interfere with everyday activities and prevent employees from doing their jobs effectively. From slips and falls to repetitive movements, hip injuries often result in pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Receiving the right care and adjusting work routines are key to managing these injuries and ensuring a safe return to work.
Common work-related hip injuries
Several types of hip injuries can result from work-related activities, depending on the nature of the job and the physical demands involved. They often include:
- Labral tears: Damage to the cartilage surrounding the hip joint, often from twisting or sudden impacts.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa sac, which can cause pain and stiffness. This injury is often the result of repetitive motion.
- Hip flexor strains: Strains occur when muscles are overstretched and are common in jobs requiring frequent bending or heavy lifting.
- Fractures and dislocations: These are often severe injuries caused by falls or heavy equipment accidents.
- Snapping hip syndrome: This is a popping sensation that occurs when tendons move over bones, typically due to overuse.
How are work-related hip injuries treated?
Treatment depends on the severity of the injury, but most cases respond well to non-invasive methods. This often includes:
- Rest and activity modification: Workers may need to limit strenuous activities or temporarily adjust their job duties to allow healing. Using crutches or a brace can also help reduce stress on the hip.
- Physical therapy: Rehabilitation exercises focus on restoring strength and mobility. Stretching, range-of-motion exercises, and muscle-strengthening activities prevent stiffness and reduce the risk of reinjury.
- Medication and pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen help reduce inflammation. In more severe cases, doctors may recommend corticosteroid injections to manage pain.
- Ice and heat therapy: Ice can reduce swelling in the early stages of an injury, while heat helps relax muscles and improve circulation during recovery.
- Assistive devices: Walkers or canes can ease mobility and reduce strain on the hip during healing.
When is surgery necessary for hip injuries?
Surgical options are only recommended for severe injuries that don't respond to conservative treatments. Common procedures include:
- Arthroscopic surgery: This is used to repair labral tears or remove loose fragments in the joint.
- Hip replacement: This is necessary in cases of severe trauma or advanced arthritis that limits mobility and quality of life.
How can workplace adjustments aid recovery?
Returning to work after a hip injury may require adjustments to job duties. Employers should consider modifying tasks to reduce physical strain, offer ergonomic tools, or adjust work hours to accommodate recovery. Temporary accommodations can prevent setbacks and help employees stay productive during their recovery.
What rights do workers have when injured on the job?
If you suffered a hip injury at work, you have the right to pursue a workers' compensation claim. This allows you to seek coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation services, regardless of fault. It's important to report the injury to your employer as soon as possible to avoid delays or complications with your claim.
If the injury leads to long-term or permanent disability, they may qualify for additional benefits, such as permanent partial disability or lump-sum settlements. If your claim was unfairly denied or delayed, you have the right to appeal through the state's workers' compensation board. In some cases, you may also pursue a third-party claim if your injury was caused by someone other than your employer, such as a contractor or equipment manufacturer.
Get back to living pain-free after a hip injury at work
If you're dealing with a hip injury, IMC Bone Doc is ready to help. Our orthopedic surgeons in New York are experienced in diagnosing and treating a wide range of hip conditions, from fractures and strains to chronic joint pain. With over 100 years of combined medical experience, our board-certified, fellowship-trained specialists know how to provide the right care—whether that means surgery, rehabilitation, or non-invasive treatment tailored to your specific needs.
Don't let your hip injury hold you back. We offer immediate appointments—often the same day—at any of our seven convenient locations across New York City and Long Island. We work closely with most major insurance providers, including those handling workers' compensation claims, to ensure you get the care you need without unnecessary delays. We also handle all the necessary paperwork required for work-related injuries so you can focus on getting better. Schedule your appointment online or call us today to see how we can help you.
"I did about 8-10 sessions of physical therapy with them for a right hip pain that I was having for years. My pain has now been gone, great place, great attitude of the staff members…." - Lynox Mclean
