Musculoskeletal Conditions: Hip Issues Introduction

Many hip conditions are related to poor functional integration between the lumbar spine, pelvis and legs. More specifically, hip problems may result from such musculoskeletal conditions as:

Structural issues
Ligament tears
Osteoporosis
Cumulative stress (“wear and tear”) related to body movement patterns and asymmetries

Examples of cumulative stress:

Weak, tight adductors from prolonged periods of sitting, driving or postural stress causing joints to grind
Bowlegs causing the body weight to be carried more on the outer sides of the hips, knees and feet, leading to uneven wear and, potentially, arthritis. (Nina Zolotow)

Examples of structural issues:

One hip being higher than the other
One hip rotated forward of the other
One leg more turned in or out more than the other

Gary Kraftsow notes that such structural conditions relate to:

Corresponding muscular imbalances,
Chronic muscular contractions, and/or
Muscular weakness
In addition, there may be joint instability and hypermobility or joint rigidity and lack of mobility