UAB recently launched its Hip Preservation Program, which is designed for people with hip deterioration, whether it is just beginning or a long term problem. Hip specialists in the program can slow or reverse progression of degenerative changes in the hip and utilize minimally invasive techniques to treat many hip disorders.

"As our understanding of hip conditions expands, newer techniques are allowing us to better diagnose and treat hip conditions that may not previously have been recognized," said Amit Momaya, MD, chief of the Sports Medicine Section in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. "These interventions can be life-changing, but require a specific skillset and training to be able to implement them effectively."

As patients are increasingly staying active and participating in sports, there has been more demand for specialized hip treatment. The people in need of these services can be the recreational weekend runner, the elite professional athlete or anywhere in between.

"Through improvements in hip preservation surgery, we are now able to intervene earlier and treat conditions such as hip impingement, labral tears, hip tendon tears and hip dysplasia," said Aaron Casp, MD, orthopedic surgeon and director of the newly formed program. "While some of these surgeries are not brand-new, it takes a special group of medical staff and personnel to refine the care of this complex joint."

The team at UAB's Hip Preservation Program includes orthopedic surgeons, primary care sports medicine physicians, radiologists and other musculoskeletal health professionals. Not every patient with hip pain requires surgery, so the team also uses many non-surgical approaches such as injections, anti-inflammatories and physical therapy.