Hip pain can mean many different things, from a simple muscle strain to a problem inside the hip joint. The meaning often depends on where the pain is, how it started, and what makes it worse.
Common causes of hip pain
- Arthritis (especially osteoarthritis)
- Common with aging.
- May cause deep aching pain, stiffness, reduced range of motion, and discomfort when walking or standing.
- Muscle, tendon, or ligament strain
- Can happen after exercise, lifting, a fall, or unusual activity.
- Often causes soreness that worsens with certain movements.
- Bursitis
- Inflammation of the small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the hip.
- Often causes pain on the outside of the hip, especially when lying on that side or climbing stairs.
- Tendon problems
- Irritation of tendons around the hip can cause pain with movement or activity.
- Nerve-related pain
- Problems such as lower back nerve irritation can cause pain that travels into the hip, buttock, or leg.
- Hip fracture or injury
- More likely after a fall, especially in older adults.
- May cause sudden severe pain and difficulty putting weight on the leg.
Where the pain is can give clues
- Front of the hip/groin: Often linked to the hip joint itself (such as arthritis or joint problems).
- Outside of the hip: More often related to bursitis or tendon irritation.
- Buttock or back of the hip: May involve muscles, the spine, or nerves.
Seek medical attention sooner if you have:
- Sudden severe hip pain after a fall or injury
- Inability to walk or put weight on the leg
- Fever, redness, or swelling around the hip
- Pain that is worsening or not improving after a few weeks
- Unexplained weight loss, night pain, or pain that wakes you regularly
What may help mild hip pain
- Gentle movement and avoiding activities that clearly worsen pain
- Ice for a new injury or swelling; heat may help stiffness
- Light stretching and strengthening exercises when appropriate
- Supportive footwear and attention to posture
If you tell me your age, where the hip pain is (front/groin, side, or buttock), how long it has been present, and whether it hurts more when walking, sitting, or lying down, I can help narrow down the likely causes.
