Clinical reasoning in the evaluation and management of undiagnosed chronic hip pain in a young adult

Department of Physical Therapy, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington 05405, USA. nzimny@cosmos.uvm.edu

This case report describes the clinical reasoning used to manage chronic left hip pain in a 21-year-old woman who was recreationally active. The patient had a history of possible congenital hip dysplasia (CHD) and known recurrent lateral (external) patellar subluxations on the left side. She complained of experiencing hip pain when walking, sitting, playing soccer, and doing "step aerobics." Hip range of motion (ROM), muscle force, and joint stability problems were assessed. Abnormal movement patterns were observed during gait and step aerobics. Intervention was based on the working hypothesis that periarticular stiffness and muscle weakness from earlier trauma were superimposed on joint instability from CHD. Following intervention, the patient's hip ROM and muscle force improved concurrently with reduction of hip pain, increased ability to participate in recreational activities, and improvement in the movement pattern during step aerobics. An eclectic approach to analysis of the problem was used, combining data unique to the patient with knowledge of CHD and concepts proposed by Cyriax, Maitland, Sahrmann, and others. The clinical reasoning used to establish a basis for treatment and its limitations are discussed.