[Differential diagnosis of hip and groin pain. Symptoms and technique for physical examination]

Abstract

The differential diagnosis of hip and groin pain with respect to the high frequency of referred pain from the lumbar spine, lower abdomen, and pelvis is demanding. A systematic approach to the hip and groin area is important to identify the origin of pain. Both the history and quality of symptoms and the physical exam are the basics of the diagnostic algorithm. Roentgenograms and possibly an injection with a local anesthetic to the suspected origin of pain often complete the diagnostic work-up.The following report summarizes the typical symptoms of hip and groin disorders. A detailed description of the physical exam including functional tests for impingement, apprehension, adductor-, psoas-, and inguinal-related pain is included.