Hip Injury at Work

How hip injuries happen on the job

Falls onto the side, twisting under a load, repeated climbing in and out of vehicles, and standing or walking on concrete for full shifts all load the hip. Pain can come from the joint itself, the muscles and tendons around it, or the low back referring pain into the hip and buttock.

Symptoms worth getting examined

• Pain in the groin, outer hip or buttock with walking or stairs
• Pain that wakes you when lying on that side
• Stiffness after sitting or first thing in the morning
• Clicking, catching or a feeling the hip may give way
• Pain that spreads down the thigh

What the first visit covers

• A history of the incident and your job duties
• A physical examination of the hip, low back and knee, since hip pain often starts in the back
• A treatment plan written for your injury and the work you do
• A work status note describing what you can and cannot do while you recover
• Referrals for imaging or pain management when the provider finds they are needed

Treatment for a work-related hip injury

Treatment reduces pain and inflammation first, restores range of motion second, and then rebuilds the strength and balance needed for stairs, ladders and long shifts. Chiropractic care and physical therapy are the core of the plan. If the exam suggests a joint or labral problem, the provider refers for imaging before progressing.

Your work status note

Restrictions for a hip injury often cover climbing, prolonged standing, squatting and lifting. The note is updated as you improve so your employer always has current restrictions in writing.