Hip pain is a common issue, affecting a large chunk of adults at some point in their lives. Studies show that athletes, older adults, and individuals with physically demanding jobs or sedentary lifestyles are particularly vulnerable to hip-related conditions. Hip pain can significantly impact daily activities and overall quality of life, so it’s important to understand the symptoms and treatment options. In this blog, we’ll explore the common causes of hip pain, symptoms to be aware of, and how physical therapy can play a role in relieving discomfort and improving function.
Common Symptoms of Hip Pain
Unsurprisingly, the primary indicator of hip pain is discomfort in the hip itself. However, hip pain, pathology, and dysfunction aren’t always straightforward. Did you know that hip osteoarthritis pain is often referred to and felt in the knee? The downstream effects of hip pain can affect more than just the local sensation of your hip. Hip pain can also lead to the following downstream effects:
- Loss in strength, muscle, and bone density – Hip pain can lead to decreased physical activity due to discomfort, which results in muscle atrophy (sarcopenia), reduced bone density (osteoporosis), and general weakness over time. This makes it more difficult to perform tasks like lifting heavy objects or walking uphill without fatigue. Prolonged immobility can accelerate muscle and bone loss, increasing the risk of injury.
- Decline in balance – The hip joint plays a key role in maintaining your body’s center of gravity during movement. When hip pain causes compensatory changes in posture or gait, you may experience unsteadiness, particularly when navigating stairs, curbs, or uneven surfaces. This instability can lead to a higher risk of falls — a serious concern for older adults.
- Decline in mobility – Everyday movements, such as standing up from a chair, climbing stairs, or getting in and out of a car, rely on strong and mobile hip joints. When hip pain or stiffness sets in, even routine tasks become challenging, limiting independence and quality of life.
- Limitations in physical and recreational activities – Hip pain often restricts participation in recreational activities like running, walking long distances, lifting weights, or playing sports. Over time, avoiding these activities can affect physical fitness and mental well-being, as hobbies and exercise routines are often a source of stress relief and social interaction.
Common Causes of Hip Pain
Hip pain often stems from injury, overuse, degenerative changes, or post-surgical issues. Listed below are some common causes of hip pain:
- Hip arthritis – A degenerative joint condition that leads to cartilage breakdown, causing stiffness, pain, and reduced range of motion.
- Hip muscle strain – An overstretching or tearing of the hip muscles due to sudden movements or repetitive overuse, resulting in pain and muscle weakness.
- Hip impingement – A condition where abnormal bone growth causes the hip bones to rub together, leading to joint irritation and pain during movement.
- Hip labral tear – A tear in the cartilage (labrum) that lines the hip socket, often caused by trauma, repetitive twisting, or structural abnormalities.
- Hip fracture – A break in the bone(s) at the hip joint, typically caused by falls or trauma. This is more common in older adults with osteoporosis.
- Hip tendonitis/tendinopathy – Degeneration of the hip tendons due to overuse, leading to localized pain and difficulty with activities like squatting or climbing stairs.
- Sciatica – Pain that radiates into the hip, caused by irritation of the nerves of the lower back.
- Hip bursitis – Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the hip joint, leading to pain on the outer hip, especially during activities like lying on the affected side or climbing stairs.
- Piriformis syndrome – A condition where the piriformis muscle compresses the sciatic nerve, causing pain that radiates through the hip and down the leg.
Effective Treatment Options for Hip Pain
Effectively managing hip pain requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the root cause and its symptoms. The goal is to reduce pain, restore mobility and function, and prevent future issues. Depending on the severity and nature of your condition, treatment may involve physical therapy, medical intervention, or, in rare cases, surgery. Below are the primary options for treating hip pain:
Physical Therapy First
Physical therapy should be the first line of treatment for hip pain, focusing on improving strength, mobility, and function. These are the typical interventions used:
- Strengthening exercises – Targeting the hips, core, and lower extremities to support the joint and reduce strain.
- Stretching and mobility work – Addressing stiffness and improving range of motion for more fluid, pain-free movement.
- Manual therapy – Techniques such as joint mobilization, dry needling, and soft tissue mobilization to reduce pain and enhance mobility.
- Proprioception and balance training – Improving stability and coordination to reduce the risk of falls and compensatory movement patterns.
- Education – Guidance on load management, activity modification, movement mechanics, and gait training to reduce stress and improve function.
Referral to an Orthopedic Hip Specialist (Physician)
If progress in physical therapy slows or plateaus, your physical therapist (PT) may refer you to an orthopedic hip specialist. Sometimes, working with a specialist alongside your PT can optimize outcomes. An orthopedic physician may:
- Prescribe medication – For pain relief and inflammation management.
- Order imaging tests – Like X-rays or MRIs to gain further insights into joint or soft tissue conditions.
- Administer corticosteroid injections – To help manage inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.
Surgery: Last Resort
Surgery is typically considered a last resort after conservative treatments have been exhausted. While it comes with certain risks, surgical intervention may be the best option for individuals with severe hip conditions, such as advanced osteoarthritis or complex fractures. Procedures such as hip replacements can provide significant pain relief and restore mobility, allowing patients to regain their independence and improve their quality of life. In most cases, even after surgery, physical therapy is essential for post-operative recovery to rebuild strength, improve range of motion, and ensure a successful return to activity.
Find Hip Pain Relief at a Physical Therapy Clinic Near You
Whether you’re experiencing chronic hip pain or occasional discomfort, seeking treatment from a qualified physical therapist is essential for adequate recovery, and regular sessions with a physical therapist can significantly improve your mobility, reduce pain, and enhance your overall quality of life. Take the first step towards recovery by finding a physical therapy location near you. Early intervention can lead to quicker and more effective relief, allowing you to return to normal activities and get back to what you love.