Factors associated with hip pain in end-stage renal disease patients on prevalent hemodialysis: a cross-sectional study

Abstract
Background Hemodialysis (HD) patients suffer from musculoskeletal disorders. The most reported musculoskeletal problem is arthralgia. Hip arthralgia has been commonly reported in patients undergoing HD. Hip pain can lead to a decrease in levels of physical activity, limitation in joint range of motion, and consequently difficulties in performing activities of daily living (ADL) and impair the quality of life (QoL). The aim of the study is to reveal the prevalence of hip pain and related factors in HD patients. This cross-sectional study included 73 patients on prevalent HD whose ages ranged from 25 to 65 years and who were on HD for more than 6 months. Physical examination and radiological imaging were done to every patient. Visual analog scale, Barthel Index, and Short Form-36 were used to evaluate pain, ADL, and QoL, respectively. Results Hip arthralgia was detected in 32 patients. Around 43% of which were diagnosed hip osteoarthritis, 34% greater trochanteric pain syndrome, 15% femoroacetabular impingement, and 6% soft tissue calcifications. Diabetes mellitus and hemodialysis duration were found to be significantly different between the groups of hip pain and without hip pain. Diabetes mellitus was identified as an independent risk factor for hip pain in hemodialysis patients. ADL and QoL were significantly lower in patients with hip pain compared to those without (p < 0.01; p < 0.05, respectively). Conclusions The results of our research show that HD patients should be screened for the presence of hip pain and other musculoskeletal disorders and that this is an area which requires further consideration and medical research.