Hip & Groin Conditions

FAI occurs when the ball and socket of the hip joint don't fit together properly, causing abnormal friction and pressure with movement. Over time this damages the cartilage and labrum, leading to pain and progressive dysfunction. Dr. Stewart has published peer-reviewed research on FAI in collaboration with UW-Eau Claire and has been treating it arthroscopically since 2000.

The labrum is a ring of cartilage lining the hip socket that keeps the ball firmly in place. Tears cause deep hip and groin pain, a catching or locking sensation, and instability. They are commonly caused by FAI, trauma, or repetitive motion.

The most common form of hip arthritis. Cartilage wears away over time, leaving bones to rub together. Pain develops gradually, worsens with weight-bearing activity, and is typically felt in the groin, thigh, and buttock.

Occurs when blood supply to the femoral head is disrupted, causing bone tissue to die. If left untreated, the joint surface collapses. Can result from steroid use, excessive alcohol, trauma, or occur without a clear cause.

The hip abductor tendons stabilize the pelvis during walking. Inflammation or tearing causes significant lateral hip pain and a Trendelenburg gait (limping). This can be often misdiagnosed as bursitis. Typically this is treated surgically when conservative care fails.

Inflammation of the tendons attached to the ischial tuberosity (the sitting bone) at the base of the pelvis. Common in athletes and active patients, causing deep buttock pain that worsens with sitting, running, or bending forward.

A break in the upper portion of the femur near the hip joint. Most commonly caused by falls in older adults or high-energy trauma in younger patients. Requires urgent evaluation and often surgical treatment to restore function.

A rare, self-limiting condition characterized by sudden onset hip pain and temporary bone loss in the femoral head. Most common in middle-aged men and women in late pregnancy. MRI is essential for diagnosis.

Hip replacements can fail due to loosening of components, wear, dislocation, or fracture around the implant. Revision surgery is complex but often necessary to relieve pain and restore mobility.

Periprosthetic joint infection is a serious complication of hip replacement surgery. Symptoms include increasing pain, warmth, swelling, and fever. Requires prompt diagnosis and typically staged surgical treatment with antibiotics.