Hip pain: what does it mean?

Hip pain can have many causes. The location of the pain, your age, whether it started after an injury, and any accompanying symptoms all help narrow down the cause.

Here are some common possibilities:

Arthritis: A common cause in older adults. Pain is often felt in the groin or front of the hip, with stiffness that’s worse in the morning or after resting.
Muscle or tendon strain: Can occur after exercise, lifting, or sudden movements. Pain usually worsens with activity.
Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs around the hip. This often causes pain on the outside of the hip, especially when lying on that side.
Sciatica or lower back problems: Pain from the lower back can travel into the hip, buttock, or leg and may be accompanied by numbness or tingling.
Hip fracture: More common after a fall, especially in older adults. Severe pain and inability to bear weight require urgent medical attention.
Inflammatory conditions or infection: Less common but important causes, especially if hip pain is accompanied by fever, redness, or significant swelling.

When to seek urgent medical care

Get immediate medical attention if hip pain is associated with:

A major fall or injury.
Inability to stand or bear weight.
A visibly deformed hip or leg.
Fever, chills, or redness around the hip.
Sudden, severe pain that doesn’t improve.

Self-care for mild hip pain

Rest from activities that make the pain worse.
Apply ice for the first 24–48 hours if the pain followed an injury; heat may help with muscle stiffness afterward.
Gentle stretching and gradual return to activity can help once the pain begins to improve.
If appropriate for you, over-the-counter pain relievers may provide temporary relief.

If your hip pain lasts more than a few days, keeps returning, or limits your daily activities, it’s a good idea to see a healthcare professional for an evaluation.

If you can tell me: