Hip pain is a widespread issue, affecting about 10% adults in the U.S While common, the answer to 'why does my hip hurt?' isn't always straightforward. The pain can stem from the hip joint itself or be referred from surrounding structures like your spine or knees, making an accurate diagnosis essential for effective treatment.
At Sports Medicine & Joint Replacement Specialists, we are expert providers of sports medicine, joint replacement, and musculoskeletal trauma care in Pennsylvania. Our dedicated team uses advanced diagnostic techniques to pinpoint the exact source of your discomfort and create a personalized treatment plan to help you find relief. If you're struggling with hip pain, schedule an appointment with us today.
Let’s explore the common hip pain causes that our specialists investigate first.
Common Hip Pain Causes Specialists Investigate
When you see a specialist for hip pain, they'll consider several potential sources. The first step in your hip pain diagnosis is a thorough evaluation of your symptoms, medical history, and a physical examination.
1. Arthritis
Arthritis is one of the most frequent causes of hip pain, especially in older adults. Both osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear arthritis) and rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disease) can cause the cartilage in your hip joint to break down. This leads to pain, stiffness, and inflammation.
- Hip pain symptoms: A dull, aching pain in the groin, outer thigh, or buttocks that often worsens with activity.
2. Bursitis
Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near your joints. When these sacs become inflamed, it's called bursitis. Trochanteric bursitis, inflammation of the bursa on the outside point of your hip, is a common culprit.
- Hip pain symptoms: Sharp, intense pain on the outside of your hip that can spread down your thigh. It may feel worse when you get up from a chair or lie on the affected side.
3. Tendonitis
Tendonitis occurs when tendons—the thick cords that attach muscle to bone—become inflamed or irritated from overuse. Repetitive activities from sports or work can strain the tendons around the hip, leading to pain and tenderness.
- Hip pain symptoms: Pain is usually a dull ache that develops gradually and worsens with movement.
4. Muscle or Tendon Strain
Strains from overstretching or tearing muscles or tendons that support the hip, like the hip flexors and hamstrings, are another common cause. These injuries often happen during sports or strenuous activities.
- Hip pain symptoms: You might feel a sudden onset of pain, swelling, and have limited range of motion.
5. Fractures
A hip fracture is a serious injury, especially for older individuals with osteoporosis. It typically results from a fall or direct impact. Stress fractures can also occur in athletes due to repetitive, high-impact activities.
- Hip pain symptoms: Severe pain in the hip or groin and inability to put weight on the affected leg.
6. Labral Tears
The acetabular labrum is a ring of cartilage that follows the outside rim of your hip socket, helping to keep the ball of the joint in place. A tear in the labrum can result from trauma, structural issues, or degenerative conditions.
- Hip pain symptoms: A locking, clicking, or catching sensation in the hip joint, along with pain and stiffness.
7. Nerve-Related Issues
Sometimes, the source of hip pain isn't the hip joint at all. Sciatica, for instance, involves the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back down your legs. If this nerve is compressed or irritated, it can cause radiating pain that you feel in your hip and buttocks.
- Hip pain symptoms: Pain that is sharp, shooting, or burning, often accompanied by numbness or tingling that travels down the leg.
Get an Accurate Hip Pain Diagnosis
To determine the exact cause of your hip pain, your specialist may use diagnostic tools like X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans. These images help them visualize the bones, cartilage, and soft tissues to identify any damage or abnormalities. Once a diagnosis is confirmed, your doctor can recommend the best way to relieve your hip pain, whether it's through physical therapy, medication, injections, or surgery.
Ready to Relieve Your Hip Pain?
Understanding the potential source of your hip pain is the first step toward finding a solution that brings you lasting relief. The team at Sports Medicine & Joint Replacement Specialists is here to provide an accurate diagnosis and guide you through your treatment options.
Don't let hip pain hold you back any longer. Schedule an appointment today to start your journey toward a pain-free life.
