Differential Diagnosis for Anterior Hip Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI): This condition is characterized by abnormal contact between the femoral head and the acetabulum, leading to pain and limited mobility. It is a common cause of anterior hip pain, especially in young, active individuals.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Hip Flexor Strain: Strains to the hip flexor muscles, such as the iliopsoas, can cause anterior hip pain, especially with activities that involve hip flexion.
- Osteoarthritis: Degenerative joint disease can cause anterior hip pain, stiffness, and limited mobility, especially in older adults.
- Labral Tear: A tear in the labrum, the cartilage that surrounds the socket of the hip joint, can cause anterior hip pain, clicking, or catching sensations.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the hip joint, can cause anterior hip pain and swelling.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Septic Arthritis: A bacterial infection within the hip joint can cause severe, sudden-onset anterior hip pain, fever, and swelling. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent joint destruction and long-term damage.
- Avascular Necrosis: A condition where the blood supply to the femoral head is disrupted, leading to bone death and collapse. It can cause anterior hip pain, especially in individuals with risk factors such as steroid use or trauma.
- Stress Fracture: A fracture in the femoral neck or other bones around the hip joint can cause anterior hip pain, especially with weight-bearing activities.
Rare Diagnoses
- Piriformis Syndrome: Compression of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle can cause anterior hip pain, as well as pain and numbness in the buttock and leg.
- Inflammatory Arthritis: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or ankylosing spondylitis can cause anterior hip pain, stiffness, and swelling, especially in individuals with a history of autoimmune disorders.
- Tumors: Benign or malignant tumors, such as osteoid osteoma or chondrosarcoma, can cause anterior hip pain, especially if they occur in the bones around the hip joint.