Causes of Hip Pain
Hip pain may result from a variety of issues — some related to the joint itself and others linked to surrounding tissues. Below are the most frequent causes:
Arthritis
Arthritis is one of the most common causes of hip pain. Osteoarthritis results from wear and tear of the cartilage that cushions your joints, leading to bone-on-bone contact, inflammation, and pain. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition, causes inflammation in the joint lining and is often associated with morning stiffness.
Bursitis
Bursitis is the inflammation of small fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the hip joint. It typically causes pain on the outside of the hip, which may worsen with long walks, climbing stairs, or sleeping on the affected side.
Tendonitis
Overuse or strain of the tendons in the hip, especially from repetitive motion activities such as running or kicking, can lead to tendonitis. The pain is usually localized and worsens with movement.
Core Muscle Injury (Sports Hernia)
Pain in the groin could stem from a torn or strained abdominal muscle, common among athletes and active individuals. It is often mistaken for a hip joint issue but is musculoskeletal in origin.
Hip Labral Tears
Damage to the labrum, the ring of cartilage surrounding the hip socket, can lead to pain, locking, or clicking in the hip. It commonly affects dancers, athletes, and individuals with structural hip issues.
HipImpingement (Femoroacetabular Impingement - FAI)
FAI is a structural condition where the hip bones are abnormally shaped, causing them to rub during movement. This may limit range of motion and lead to cartilage damage.
How You Can Ease Hip Pain
R.I.C.E. Method for Hip Pain
The RICE method is often the first step for managing hip pain at home:
Rest: Limit activities that strain the hip.
Ice: Apply ice packs (wrapped in a towel) to reduce inflammation for 10–15 minutes every few hours.
Compression: Use compression wraps or supportive garments to reduce swelling.
Elevation: If possible, elevate the hip to reduce fluid accumulation.
Medication
Use over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
Topical creams or gels can also help relieve localized pain.
Always consult a doctor before using medication long-term.
Physical Therapy and Exercise
Targeted stretches and strengthening exercises can reduce strain and improve mobility.
Low-impact exercises like swimming, walking, or yoga are recommended.
A physiotherapist can design a customized plan based on the cause of your pain.
Injections
Corticosteroid injections help reduce inflammation and pain in the joint.
Hyaluronic acid injections may provide relief in early arthritis cases.
Surgical Options
Hip arthroscopy: Minimally invasive repair of cartilage or bone abnormalities.
Total hip replacement: Reserved for advanced arthritis or structural damage.
Your doctor will guide you on the best option based on MRI diagnosis of severity.
FAQs About Hip Pain
What is the most common cause of hip pain? Osteoarthritis is the most common cause, particularly among adults over 50.
Can hip pain be felt in other areas? Yes. Hip pain is often felt in the groin, thigh, or knee due to shared nerve pathways.
When should I worry about hip pain? If the pain is severe, affects your ability to walk, or is associated with fever or swelling, see a doctor immediately.
Does hip pain always mean a joint problem? No. Some cases of hip pain come from muscle strain, back problems, or internal conditions like gynecological or gastrointestinal issues.
Can hip pain go away on its own? Mild pain from strain or overuse may resolve with rest and self-care, but persistent or worsening pain requires professional evaluation.
How do I know if I need a hip replacement? You may need one if conservative treatments fail and the pain significantly limits your daily activities.
Published 19th June 2025
References
- Cleveland Clinic. Hip Pain: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and When to See a Doctor. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21118-hip-pain
- WebMD. Hip Pain: Causes and Treatment. Available at: https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/hip-pain-causes-and-treatment
- NHS.uk. Hip pain. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/symptoms/hip-pain/
- Mayo Clinic. Hip pain. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/hip-pain/basics/definition/sym-20050684