Ignoring Hip Pain Can Limit Your Mobility

Hip Pain in Adults: Causes and Treatments

Hip pain is a common problem among adults and can significantly affect mobility, comfort, and quality of life. The hip joint plays a vital role in walking, sitting, standing, and maintaining balance, so even mild pain can interfere with daily activities.

Understanding the possible causes of hip pain and seeking timely treatment can prevent long-term complications and help restore pain-free movement.

Understanding Hip Pain

Hip pain may be felt:

  • In the groin

  • On the outer hip

  • In the buttock

  • Radiating to the thigh or knee

The location of pain often provides important clues about the underlying condition.

Common Causes of Hip Pain in Adults

1. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common cause of hip pain in older adults. It results from gradual wear and tear of the joint cartilage.

Symptoms include:

  • Pain during walking or standing

  • Stiffness, especially in the morning

  • Reduced range of motion

2. Hip Bursitis

Inflammation of the bursae (fluid-filled sacs) around the hip can cause pain on the outer side of the hip.

Common symptoms:

  • Pain while lying on the affected side

  • Pain during walking or climbing stairs

3. Tendinitis and Muscle Strain

Overuse, sudden movements, or sports activities can strain hip muscles or tendons.

Often seen in:

  • Athletes

  • Individuals with physically demanding jobs

4. Hip Labral Tears

A tear in the cartilage surrounding the hip socket can cause:

  • Deep groin pain

  • Clicking or locking sensation

  • Pain during rotation or prolonged sitting

5. Referred Pain from the Spine

Lower back problems such as disc disease or nerve compression can cause pain that feels like it’s coming from the hip.

6. Fractures and Trauma

Falls or accidents can result in hip fractures, especially in older adults with osteoporosis. Sudden severe pain and inability to walk require urgent medical attention.

7. Avascular Necrosis

Reduced blood supply to the hip bone can cause bone damage and joint pain, often worsening over time.

Treatment Options for Hip Pain

1. Rest and Activity Modification

Reducing activities that worsen pain allows the joint to heal and prevents further damage.

2. Medications

  • Pain relievers

  • Anti-inflammatory medications

These should always be used under medical supervision.

3. Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy helps by:

  • Strengthening hip and core muscles

  • Improving flexibility and stability

  • Reducing stiffness and pain

4. Lifestyle Changes

  • Weight management to reduce joint stress

  • Using proper posture and body mechanics

5. Injections

For persistent pain, treatment may include:

  • Corticosteroid injections

  • PRP therapy

These provide targeted pain relief and reduce inflammation.

6. Surgical Treatment (When Required)

Surgery may be recommended when conservative treatments fail. Options include:

  • Arthroscopy

  • Hip replacement surgery

Advances in orthopedic surgery allow faster recovery and improved outcomes.

When to See an Orthopedic Surgeon

Seek medical advice if:

  • Hip pain lasts more than a few weeks

  • Pain interferes with walking or sleep

  • Pain is associated with stiffness or reduced movement

  • There is sudden pain after a fall or injury

Early diagnosis leads to better treatment outcomes.

Final Advice from an Orthopedic Surgeon

Hip pain should not be ignored or accepted as a normal part of aging. With accurate diagnosis and timely treatment, most adults can return to comfortable, active living.

Healthy hips are key to independent movement—take care of them early.