hip pain flare ups

Overview

A hip pain flare-up is a sudden or short-term increase in pain in the hip area. It can happen in any condition that affects the hip, like arthritis, bursitis, or muscle strain. The pain may feel sharp, stiff, or aching, and it often makes moving the hip uncomfortable. Flare-ups usually settle down after a few days of careful self-care, but it is worth talking to a healthcare provider if they keep happening.

Yes. Hip pain is very common, especially in adults over 40. Flare-ups are especially common in people with hip osteoarthritis, hip bursitis, or around damaged tendons and muscles.

Anyone can have a hip pain flare-up. They are more likely in people with joint conditions such as osteoarthritis, in those who have had previous hip injuries, and in people who are overweight or do a lot of repetitive lifting or straining.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A sudden increase in pain in the hip, groin, buttock, or upper thigh
• Stiffness in the hip, especially in the morning or after sitting for a while
• Pain when walking, going upstairs, or getting out of a chair
• A catching, clicking, or grinding feeling in the hip
• Difficulty putting weight on the affected leg
• Aches that worsen toward the end of the day or during the night

Symptoms in children

• A sudden limp or a change in the way your child walks
• Complaining of pain in the hip, groin, or thigh
• Refusing to walk, run, or play as they usually do

Symptoms in older adults

• Pain that is often felt in the groin, outer hip, or inner thigh
• Pain that is worse in the morning or after a night of rest
• Trouble getting in or out of a car, putting on socks, or using the toilet
• Sudden severe pain after a fall, which could mean a fracture and should not be ignored

Causes

Main causes

• Osteoarthritis — often called 'wear and tear' arthritis, when the protective cartilage on the ends of your bones wears down over time
• Hip bursitis — inflammation of the tiny fluid-filled sacs that cushion the hip joint
• Tendonitis or muscle strain — overworking the muscles and tendons around the hip, often from repeated movements or sudden activity
• Previous hip injury or surgery
• Referred pain — pain that actually starts in the lower back or knee but is felt in the hip area

Risk factors

• Getting older
• Being overweight
• Having a family history of arthritis
• Working in a job that involves heavy lifting, squatting, or long periods of standing
• A past hip injury or fracture
• Weak or unbalanced muscles in the hips, legs, or core

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You cannot bear weight on your leg at all
• Your hip is visibly swollen, red, or hot to the touch
• You have a fever along with hip pain
• Your leg is numb, weak, or turning blue or pale

Book a routine appointment if:

• Hip pain that has not settled after 2–3 weeks of gentle self-care
• Pain that is getting worse over time or limiting your daily activities
• A hip that feels stiff in the morning for more than 30 minutes
• You need help with things like dressing, bathing, or walking because of the hip pain

Diagnosis

Your healthcare provider will start by asking about the pain, how it feels, when it started, and what makes it better or worse. They will then gently examine your hip, check your walking, and test your hip's range of movement.

Tests that may be done

• An X-ray is often the first imaging test to look at the bones and joint space.
• Ultrasound can check for fluid buildup, bursitis, or tendon problems.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to look at soft tissue damage or more subtle injuries.
• Blood tests can check for markers of inflammation or infection if your doctor suspects these.

What to expect at your appointment

The appointment may involve simple movement tests and sometimes an imaging scan. You will not usually need any special preparation. Your doctor will explain what they find and talk with you about a plan to manage your symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment helps to calm pain and keep you moving. Most flare-ups can be managed at home, but if the pain is persistent, a healthcare provider can offer tailored options.

Self-care at home

• Apply an ice pack wrapped in a towel for 15–20 minutes, a few times a day, for the first 1–2 days
• Use a warm pack or a warm bath after the initial swelling phase to relax tight muscles
• Reduce heavy activities, such as running or lifting, for a day or two
• Keep gentle movement going — short walks and simple range-of-motion exercises can help
• If needed, use a walking stick or cane on the opposite side to your painful hip
• Try sleeping on your back with a pillow under your knees, or on your side with a pillow between your knees

Medical treatments

Physical therapy is a common and helpful treatment for hip pain. Your clinician may also discuss options like a local steroid injection into the hip joint to reduce short-term inflammation, or prescribe pain relief that is appropriate for you. Never start or change any medicine without talking to a qualified healthcare provider.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not routinely needed for a hip pain flare-up. It may be considered if there is severe joint damage, such as advanced osteoarthritis, and if other treatments have not helped. Your healthcare team will talk through the benefits, risks, and alternatives before any procedure.

Living with this condition

Living with hip pain flare-ups often means pacing yourself. Listen to your body — do a little less on painful days and gradually increase activity when it feels right. Try to sit in chairs that are high enough to stand up easily, and use a step when climbing in and out of a vehicle.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep doing gentle, low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, or walking
• Strengthen your hip, leg, and core muscles with simple exercises you can learn from a physical therapist
• Keep your weight in a healthy range for your body
• Wear cushioned, supportive shoes
• Modify your home: use a raised seat or handrails where needed
• Allow time to warm up before exercise and cool down afterwards

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet supports your joints and overall health. Include plenty of fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and calcium-rich foods. Regular low-impact exercise like swimming or water aerobics can ease stiffness and strengthen muscles without putting too much strain on the hip.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Recurring hip pain can feel exhausting and make you feel down or frustrated. These feelings are completely normal. It is important to acknowledge them and seek support. If you ever feel overwhelmed or have thoughts of self-harm, reach out to your local crisis support service or call your local emergency number right away.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent flare-ups, especially if you have arthritis, but you can lower the chances by staying active, keeping a healthy weight, and avoiding sudden, heavy demands on your hip.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine that prevents hip pain itself. However, staying up to date with recommended vaccines can help protect you from infections that might otherwise affect your joints or make them more painful.

Screening programmes

If you are at risk for osteoporosis, your doctor may suggest a bone density scan to check the strength of your bones. This can help guide treatment and lower the risk of hip fractures.

Complications

If left untreated

• Joint damage may progress, and pain could become more frequent
• You may lose strength and mobility in your hip and leg
• A fractured hip may be missed if you have a fall and don't seek care
• Chronic pain can affect sleep, mood, and quality of life

Long-term outlook

The outlook for hip pain flare-ups is generally positive. With the right mix of rest, movement, and medical support when needed, most people can manage their symptoms and keep doing the things they enjoy. Long-term joint conditions can be treated with a range of strategies that help you stay active and comfortable.

Find support

International organisations

• Versus Arthritis ↗
• Arthritis Foundation ↗

Local organisations

• NHS ↗ · United Kingdom

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