hip pain that comes and goes

Overview

Hip pain that comes and goes means you feel pain in or around your hip at certain times, but not all the time. It may flare up with certain moves or ease with rest. Many different problems can cause this kind of intermittent pain, from muscle strain to arthritis. Most causes are treatable.

Yes. Millions of people around the world experience hip pain at some point. Pain that comes and goes is a typical pattern for many hip conditions, especially as we get older.

It can affect people of any age, from active teenagers to older adults. You are more likely to experience it if you are overweight, sit for long periods, or take part in sports or activities that strain the hip.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A dull ache in the hip or groin area
• Sharp pain when you put weight on the leg
• Stiffness after sitting or resting for a while
• Pain that travels to the thigh, buttock, or knee
• Discomfort when lying on the affected side

Symptoms in children

• Pain that appears after running or playing
• A limp or walking differently
• Night-time hip or knee pain in a growing child
• Tenderness when you touch the hip

Symptoms in older adults

• Pain when first starting to walk after sitting
• Stiffness in the morning that eases with movement
• Aching after walking or standing for long
• Reduced ability to bend or rotate the hip

Causes

Main causes

• Osteoarthritis – wear and tear of the hip joint cartilage
• Bursitis – inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joint
• Tendonitis – irritation of the tendons around the hip
• Muscle strain – overstretching or minor tearing of hip muscles
• Sciatica – irritation of the nerve roots in the lower back that can radiate pain to the hip
• Hip labral tear – a tear in the ring of cartilage that surrounds the hip socket

Risk factors

• Age over 50
• Being overweight or obese
• Previous hip injury
• Repetitive twisting or high-impact sports
• Prolonged sitting or a sedentary lifestyle
• Weak hip or core muscles

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You cannot put weight on your hip at all
• Your pain is extreme and came on suddenly
• You have a fever, red or hot skin around the hip
• You have had a serious fall or injury

Book a routine appointment if:

• Your hip pain lasts more than two weeks despite home care
• The pain is gradually worsening or stopping you from normal activities
• You have stiffness in the morning that lasts longer than 30 minutes
• You feel pain at night that disturbs your sleep

Diagnosis

A healthcare provider will ask you about your pain pattern, what makes it better or worse, and any recent injuries. They will examine your hip, watch how you walk, and check your movement. Usually this is enough to get a good idea. In some cases, imaging helps.

Tests that may be done

• X-ray – to look at the bones and joint space
• MRI – to check soft tissues like cartilage, tendons, or the labrum
• Ultrasound – to look at fluid or inflammation near the joint surface
• Blood tests – if arthritis or infection is suspected

What to expect at your appointment

You may not need every test. The doctor will guide you step by step. If a cause is found, they will talk through the options with you and answer your questions. Many hip problems are diagnosed and managed without surgery.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause. For many people with intermittent hip pain, conservative measures are very helpful. A combination of self-care, physiotherapy, and gradual return to normal activity works well.

Self-care at home

• Rest the hip for a day or two after a flare-up, but do not stay still for too long
• Apply an ice pack wrapped in a towel for 15–20 minutes a few times a day
• Use warmth later to relax tight muscles
• Try gentle stretching of the hip, buttock, and thigh muscles
• Avoid activities that make the pain worse, such as deep squatting or twisting on a fixed foot

Medical treatments

Doctors may recommend pain relief medicines that are available over the counter, but you should always ask your pharmacist or doctor before taking anything. They may also suggest physiotherapy to strengthen the muscles around the hip, or a short course of anti-inflammatory treatment. In some cases, an injection can be given into the hip or surrounding tissue to reduce inflammation. Any medication or injection should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely the first option. It may be considered if imaging shows severe joint damage and symptoms are not improved by other treatments. The most common operation for advanced hip osteoarthritis is a total hip replacement, where the damaged joint surfaces are replaced with artificial parts. You and your specialist can decide if this is right for you.

Living with this condition

Listen to your body. You do not have to stop moving, but you may need to pace yourself. Short walks, rest breaks, and avoiding sudden jerky movements can help you stay active without worsening the pain.

Lifestyle tips

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your hip
• Use supportive footwear with a cushioned sole
• Avoid sitting on very low chairs – choose one with armrests
• Sleep with a pillow between your knees if side-lying is painful

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Regular low-impact exercise such as swimming, cycling, or walking helps keep the hip flexible and strengthens supporting muscles. If you are unsure, ask a physiotherapist for a safe program.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with recurring pain can be frustrating and can affect your mood. It is normal to feel anxious or low. Talk to your doctor or a trusted friend. If you are struggling emotionally, ask about local support services or counselling.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent hip problems, especially those linked to age or injury. But you can reduce your risk by staying active, keeping a healthy weight, warming up before exercise, and avoiding sudden high-impact loads on the hip.

Complications

If left untreated

• Chronic pain that becomes harder to manage
• Loss of movement and stiffness in the joint
• Muscle weakness and increased risk of falls
• Avoidance of activity, which can lead to worse health overall

Long-term outlook

With proper evaluation and care, most people with intermittent hip pain improve. Treatment can be simple lifestyle changes, physiotherapy, or medicines. Even when surgery is needed, outcomes are generally very good. The key is to seek help early, keep moving safely, and work with your healthcare provider.

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