I'm only 23-years old but I'm having some serious problems with hip pain. I used to dance a lot and participate in sports every season. Could I already be getting arthritis?

More and more young people are having joint problems. Hip pain affects one out of every 12 patients under the age of 40. There are many possible reasons for this symptom. Arthritis is only one consideration. A medical doctor must make the diagnosis.

A proper workup for hip pain will include a patient history and exam. Depending on the results, the physician may order X-rays or some other type of imaging study. Although less common, conditions affecting other parts of the body can cause hip pain and must be considered.

For example, appendicitis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and diverticulitis are gastrointestinal problems that can refer pain to the hip. In young women, pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy, and endometriosis are possibilities. In men, prostate or testicular conditions must be ruled out.

If this problem persists, don't hesitate to make an appointment for a medical evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can often make a difference for many conditions. You may have a simple problem that can be solved with change in posture, stretching, or exercise.