Hip pain can mean many different things, and the cause often depends on where the pain is felt, what triggers it, and your age, activity level, and health history.
Common causes of hip pain:
- Muscle or tendon strain
- Overuse, exercise, lifting, or sudden movements can irritate muscles and tendons around the hip.
- Pain may worsen with activity and improve with rest.
- Arthritis (especially osteoarthritis)
- A common cause of hip pain, particularly with aging.
- Symptoms may include stiffness, reduced range of motion, and pain when walking or standing.
- Bursitis
- Inflammation of the small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the hip joint.
- Often causes pain on the outside of the hip, especially when lying on that side.
- Nerve-related pain
- Problems in the lower back (such as a pinched nerve) can cause pain that travels into the hip, buttock, or leg, sometimes with tingling or numbness.
- Hip fracture or injury
- More common in older adults, especially after a fall.
- May cause sudden severe pain and difficulty standing or walking.
- Joint problems
- Conditions affecting the hip joint, including cartilage damage or inflammation, can cause deep groin or hip pain.
When hip pain should be checked quickly:
Seek medical advice if:
- Pain starts suddenly after a fall or injury
- You cannot put weight on the leg
- The hip is swollen, red, or warm
- You have fever with hip pain
- Pain is severe, worsening, or lasts more than a few weeks
- You have weakness, numbness, or loss of bladder/bowel control
Things that may help mild hip discomfort:
- Gentle stretching and movement
- Avoiding activities that clearly worsen pain
- Using supportive footwear
- Applying ice for recent injury or heat for stiffness (depending on what feels better)
If you tell me your age, where the pain is (groin, side of hip, buttock, or back), and whether it hurts more when walking or lying down, I can help narrow down the likely causes.
