Hip pain diagnosis often begins with a detailed investigation of the patient’s medical and personal history. Sometimes, a fall, fracture, sports injury, accident etc could be the cause for hip pain. In such cases, diagnosis is relatively easy. Sometimes, hip pain may arise due to other factors like arthritis, infection etc.

In such cases, diagnosis will be more complicated. A physical examination of the hip, legs and back will also be conducted. Doctors will palpitate the hip and feel for any abnormalities. Patients may be asked to walk or stand so that the doctor can test range of motion, strength etc. Imaging techniques like X-rays and MRI scans are indispensable in diagnosis of hip pain. Severe fractures appear clearly on an X-ray.

Small cracks or breaks in the joints, vascular necrosis etc can be observed by conducting  a CT scan or MRI scan. Doctors may also order a blood test to get an idea of your general health and also to identify whether there is a microbial infection that is causing the pain and inflammation. Elevated ESR and WBC count indicate that inflammation has occurred. Further blood tests may be ordered to check for the presence of micro organisms which can cause inflammation.