Buttock, thigh and hip pain with severe swelling

by Trish
(Boston, MA)

I'm fifty two and had acute onset of pain in grocery store over a year ago. Six months later I had arthroscopic hip surgery due to a torn labrum and femoracetabular impingement. Surgeon debrided the labrum and shaved femoral neck due to hip dysplasia and a bony abnormality.

Had lumbar spine MRI 6 months prior to surgery revealing annular tear L2 L3. PT throughout the entire year and a half. Intermittent improvement. Major SI joint issues co-existing the whole time. Five steroid injections in hip joint, SI joint, bursa. Severe nerve pain. Lower back pain and buttock pain that never stops. Lateral hip pain and massive swelling.

Had recent lumbar MRI which revealed a herniated L5 S1 and narrowing. Nerve pain is very bad. Swelling behind thigh and ache in front of thigh. Some groin pain, though of my pains that is my least. Hip and back equal parts pain.

Help!



Hello Trish,
I'm afraid it's back to the orthopaedic surgeon who operated on your hip. Soon.

Those disc injuries would not contribute in any way to the swelling in your upper leg/ buttock. There's risk of serious infection, or vascular occlusion, deep thrombosis. Serious stuff.

I would ask for an immediate consultation with him. Sorry, but looking at the info, from what you've given me, this is not good news.

All of which contributes to what is happening in your back; normally I'd suggest you start with the back exercises on our site, but that involves hip flexion. Orthopaedic consult first.

Let me know what comes of it all. Hope I'm wrong.

Dr B