What causes pain in the femoral head?

Common causes of femoral head pain:

1. Femoral head necrosis: This condition usually results from various factors that impair blood circulation to the femoral head, such as long-term heavy alcohol consumption, use of corticosteroid medications, and fractures. These factors can lead to avascular necrosis of the femoral head, subsequently causing pain and restricted movement. Early detection can be achieved through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and treatment options include conservative management or surgical intervention depending on the severity.

2. Hip arthritis: This includes osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other related conditions, which can cause damage to the joint cartilage, resulting in pain and limited mobility.

3. Hip fractures: Particularly in elderly individuals, minor falls or impacts can lead to hip fractures due to factors such as osteoporosis, causing severe pain.

4. Muscle or tendon injuries: Strains of muscles such as the iliopsoas, gluteal muscles, or quadriceps, as well as tendonitis around the hip area, can all cause pain in the femoral head region.

5. Neuropathic pain: Nerve compression conditions such as sciatica or piriformis syndrome may also present as pain near the femoral head.

6. Trauma: External forces can cause femoral head fractures or soft tissue injuries around the hip area, leading to pain. In young and middle-aged adults, such injuries may result from high-impact events like motor vehicle accidents or falls from a height, while in older individuals, even minor trauma such as a fall may be sufficient to cause injury.