If you have hip pain, it’s a signal from your body that something may be off—but it doesn’t always mean the same thing for everyone. Here’s what doctors usually consider:
Common Reasons for Hip Pain
1. Joint or Cartilage Issues
- Osteoarthritis: Wear and tear of the hip joint over time
- Symptoms: Stiffness, aching in the groin or thigh, worsens with activity
2. Muscle or Tendon Strain
- Overuse from walking, running, or exercise
- Pain usually on the outside of the hip or upper thigh
3. Bursitis
- Inflammation of the small fluid-filled sacs (bursae) near the hip
- Sharp or burning pain, often worse at night or when lying on the affected side
4. Hip Labral Tear
- Tear of the cartilage lining the hip socket
- Can cause a catching or clicking sensation, sometimes with pain in the groin
5. Referred Pain
- Sometimes hip pain comes from the lower back or spine (sciatica)
When Hip Pain Is a Clear Warning Sign
- Sudden or severe pain, especially after a fall → possible fracture
- Pain with swelling, redness, or warmth → infection or inflammation
- Persistent pain that limits walking or daily activity → needs medical evaluation
What You Can Do
- Rest and avoid activities that worsen pain
- Apply ice or heat depending on the cause
- Gentle stretching or physical therapy exercises for hip mobility
- See a doctor if pain persists more than a week or is severe
💡 Pro tip: Hip pain isn’t just an “old age problem.” Even young people can get bursitis, labral tears, or muscle strains from sports or repetitive movements.
If you want, I can also share a list of 5 easy exercises that relieve hip pain at home—they target common causes safely.
Do you want me to do that?
