Hip pain what it can mean

Overview

Hip pain is a common problem that can affect people of all ages. It refers to any discomfort felt in or around the hip joint, which is where the thigh bone meets the pelvis. The pain can be sharp, dull, aching, or burning, and it may come and go or be constant. Sometimes the pain is felt in the groin, outer thigh, or buttock area.

Yes, hip pain is very common. It affects millions of people worldwide, especially as they get older. It is one of the main reasons people visit their general practitioner or physiotherapist.

Hip pain can affect anyone, from children to older adults. It is more common in people who are overweight, have had a hip injury, or have a family history of arthritis. Athletes and people with physically demanding jobs are also at higher risk.

Symptoms

Causes

Main causes

• Arthritis — especially osteoarthritis (wear and tear) and rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune condition).
• Bursitis — inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the hip joint.
• Tendonitis — inflammation of the tendons around the hip.
• Labral tear — a tear in the ring of cartilage that surrounds the hip socket.
• Muscle strain or overuse injuries.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have sudden severe hip pain after a fall or injury, and cannot bear weight.
• If your hip area looks deformed, swollen, or is very tender to touch.
• If you have a fever with hip pain, especially if you also feel unwell.
• If you have had a hip replacement and notice any new pain, redness, or drainage.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have persistent hip pain that lasts more than a few days despite rest.

Diagnosis

Your healthcare provider will start by asking about your symptoms, medical history, and any recent activities or injuries. They will then examine your hip, checking for tenderness, swelling, range of motion, and strength. They may also look at your gait (how you walk) and check your lower back and legs for referred pain.

Tests that may be done

• X-ray — to look for arthritis, fractures, or bone abnormalities.
• Ultrasound — to see soft tissue like tendons, bursae, or fluid.
• MRI — to get detailed images of bones, cartilage, and soft tissues, especially useful for labral tears or osteonecrosis.
• Blood tests — to check for signs of infection or inflammatory arthritis.

Treatment

Treatment for hip pain depends on the cause and how severe it is. The goal is to relieve pain, improve movement, and prevent future problems. Many cases can be managed with simple self-care and lifestyle changes. Other cases may need medical treatments or, rarely, surgery. Always consult a healthcare provider for a personalised treatment plan.

Self-care at home

• Rest the hip by avoiding activities that make the pain worse, but do not stop moving completely.
• Apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling.
• Use heat packs or a warm bath for muscle stiffness or chronic pain.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers (do not use more than the recommended dose, and ask your pharmacist if they are safe for you).

Living with this condition

Living with hip pain can be challenging, but many people manage well with the right strategies. Plan your day to avoid overdoing it — alternate periods of activity with rest. Use good posture when sitting, standing, and lifting. Choose comfortable seating with good back and hip support. Break up long periods of sitting by standing and moving every 30 minutes.

Lifestyle tips

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your hips.
• Wear supportive, cushioned shoes that fit well.
• Avoid high-impact activities that jar the hip, like running on hard surfaces.
• Use assistive devices like a long-handled reacher for picking up items from the floor.

Prevention

Not all hip pain can be prevented, especially if it is due to genetics or aging. However, you can reduce your risk by maintaining a healthy weight, staying active with low-impact exercises, using proper form during sports and lifting, and avoiding falls by keeping your home safe and wearing appropriate footwear. If you have osteoporosis, treatment can help prevent fractures.

Vaccines

There are no vaccines specifically for hip pain. However, keeping up with vaccinations (like flu and pneumonia) can help prevent infections that might affect joints.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for hip pain in the general population. However, if you have risk factors like a family history of hip problems or osteoporosis, your doctor may recommend bone density scans or other tests to monitor your hip health.

Complications

If left untreated

• Chronic pain that limits daily activities and reduces quality of life.
• Stiffness and loss of movement in the hip joint, leading to a limp or difficulty walking.
• Muscle weakness and wasting due to not using the leg properly.
• Progression of underlying conditions, such as arthritis, which may lead to joint deformity.
• Increased risk of falls due to instability or pain.

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