Overview
Arthritis, accidents, or issues with the hip socket can bring on Hip discomfort. Hip pain can affect people of any age, although older people are more prone to encounter it because of arthritis and bone fractures. Dancers, gymnasts, and other athletes with a wide range of hip motion are more prone to hip injuries, particularly from overuse.
Rest, anti-inflammatory drugs, and ice therapy depending on the cause, may help you feel better. Surgery might be required to treat more severe wounds.
What are the Causes and Treatment of Hip Pain?
Various illnesses and accidents throughout your life can bring on hip pain. Typical causes of hip discomfort include the following:
Arthritis
Hips can be affected by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, among other forms of arthritis. The disorder osteoarthritis (OA), which affects the smooth tissue covering the ends of bones in joints, is brought on by cartilage destruction. Hip pain and stiffness can occur when the cartilage in the hip joint starts to degrade.
Various factors, including age, genetics, obesity, joint injury, and repetitive stress on the joint, can cause hip osteoarthritis. As cartilage breaks down, bone can rub against bone, leading to pain and stiffness in the hip joint.
Symptoms of hip osteoarthritis may include:
- Pain and stiffness in the hip joint, particularly during movement or weight-bearing activities
- Reduced range of motion in the affected hip joint
- A grating or grinding sensation in the hip joint during movement
- Swelling or tenderness around the affected joint
Risk factors for hip osteoarthritis include
- Age
- obesity
- joint injury, and
- repetitive stress on the joint
Treatment
Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles surrounding the hip joint, medicines to control pain and inflammation, and lifestyle changes like weight loss or low-impact exercise are frequently used to treat hip osteoarthritis. Surgery to replace the injured hip joint with an artificial joint may be advised in extreme circumstances.
Bursitis
Bursitis is when the bursae, tiny fluid-filled sacs that cushion and lubricate joints, become inflamed. When bursae around the hip become inflamed, it can cause pain and discomfort in the hip area.
Various factors, including overuse, repetitive motions, or sudden injury, can cause hip bursitis.
Common types of hip bursitis include
- Trochanteric bursitis: inflammation of the bursa located on the outer side of the hip bone, which can be caused by overuse or direct trauma.
- Iliopsoas bursitis: inflammation of the bursa inside the hip joint, which can be caused by repetitive hip flexion or direct trauma.
Symptoms of hip bursitis may include
- Pain and discomfort in the hip area, particularly during movement or weight-bearing activities
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the affected hip joint
- Swelling or tenderness around the affected bursa
- Aching or burning sensation on the outside of the hip
Risk factors for hip bursitis include
- repetitive movements,
- sudden increases in activity levels
- poor biomechanics or body mechanics
- and muscular imbalances
Treatment
Treatment for hip bursitis typically involves rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and inflammation. Physical therapy may also be recommended to stretch and strengthen the affected muscles and tendons and address any underlying biomechanical issues. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may reduce inflammation and pain.
Tendinitis
Tendinitis is a tendon inflammation, a thick cord that attaches muscle to bone. When tendons around the hip become inflamed, it can cause pain and discomfort in the hip area.
Various factors, including overuse, repetitive motions, or sudden injury, can cause tendinitis in the hip.
Common types of hip tendinitis include:
- Inflammation: The iliopsoas tendon’s inflammation runs from the hip to the lower back and helps with hip flexion.
- Gluteus medius tendinitis: Inflammation of the gluteus medius tendon runs from the hip to the top of the thigh bone and helps with hip abduction and stabilization.
- Hamstring tendinitis: Inflammation of the hamstring tendon, which runs from the hip to the back of the knee and helps with hip extension.
Symptoms of hip tendinitis may include:
- Pain and discomfort in the hip area, particularly during movement or weight-bearing activities
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the affected hip joint
- Swelling or tenderness around the affected tendon
Risk factors for hip tendinitis include
- repetitive movements,
- sudden increases in activity levels,
- poor biomechanics or body mechanics,
- and muscular imbalances.
Treatment
Treatment for hip tendinitis typically involves rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and inflammation. Physical therapy may also be recommended to stretch and strengthen the affected muscles and tendons and address any underlying biomechanical issues. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may reduce inflammation and pain.
Hip Fractures
These can result in excruciating hip discomfort. The femur bone, a long bone that connects the hip and knee joints, breaks to cause a hip fracture. Older persons are more prone to this damage, especially those with osteoporosis-related weakening bones.
Various factors, including falls, direct trauma, and overuse injuries, can cause hip fractures. Some risk factors for hip fractures include age, gender (women are more likely to experience hip fractures than men), and certain medical conditions that weaken the bones.
Symptoms of a hip fracture may include
- Severe hip or groin discomfort
- Not being able to put any weight on the injured leg
- Shortening of the affected leg
- External rotation or turning out of the affected leg
- Bruising or swelling around the hip joint
Hip fractures can cause pain and discomfort in the hip area due to the damage and inflammation caused by the fracture. In addition to the pain and discomfort, a hip fracture can lead to losing mobility and independence, particularly in older adults. This can lead to a decline in overall health and an increased risk of other health problems.
Treatment
Treatment for a hip fracture typically involves surgery to repair or replace the broken bone. In some cases, nonsurgical treatments such as immobilization with a brace or cast may be used for less severe fractures. Rehabilitation and physical therapy are essential to restore strength and mobility to the affected hip.
Muscle Strains or Tears
Muscle strains or tears can cause hip bone pain when the muscles surrounding the hip joint become stretched or torn. These injuries can occur when the muscles are suddenly overloaded or stretched beyond their standard capacity. Muscle strains or tears in the hip can cause varying pain and discomfort depending on the severity of the injury.
The hip joint is surrounded by several muscles, including the hip flexors, adductors, and abductors, which help to support and move the joint. Strains or tears in these muscles can cause pain and discomfort in the hip area.
Symptoms of Muscle tear:
A muscle strain or tear can cause microtears in the muscle fibers, leading to
- Inflammation and pain. Pain can be minor to severe and come with swelling and tenderness in the affected area, depending on the severity of the injury.
- Muscle spasms may occasionally result after a muscle strain or injury, worsening pain and discomfort.
Risk factors for muscle strains or tears in the hip include
- poor flexibility, inadequate warm-up or cool-down
- and muscle imbalances
These factors can increase the likelihood of an injury and make the recovery process longer and more complex.
Treatment
It typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) to reduce pain and swelling. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) may also reduce pain and inflammation. Physical therapy may be recommended to help restore the range of motion and strength in the affected hip muscles.
Pinched Nerves
A pinched nerve develops when surrounding tissue, such as bones, muscles, tendons, or cartilage, compresses or squeezes the nerve. When a nerve in or around the hip is pinched, it can cause pain and discomfort in the hip area.
Various factors, including injury, overuse, arthritis, or herniated discs in the lower back, can cause pinched nerves in the hip.
Symptoms of Pinched nerve:
The symptoms of a pinched nerve might differ depending on where it is. They can include:
- Pain and discomfort in the hip area, often described as a sharp, shooting, or burning sensation
- Numbness or tingling in the hip or down the leg
- Weakness in the affected leg or hip muscles
- Reduced range of motion in the affected hip joint
Risk factors for pinched nerves in the hip include
- repetitive movements
- a sedentary lifestyle
- poor posture, and
- Obesity
Treatment
This typically involves rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and inflammation. Physical therapy may also be recommended to stretch and strengthen the affected muscles and improve posture. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may reduce inflammation and pain.
Hip Labral Tear
The hip joint is surrounded by a hip labrum, a ring of cartilage that acts as support and defense. Hip labral tears, which can be uncomfortable and painful, can result from labrum injury.
Various factors, including injury, overuse, structural abnormalities in the hip joint, or degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis, can cause hip labral tears.
Symptoms of Hip labral tear
Depending on the severity of the tear, symptoms may vary and can include the following:
- Pain and discomfort in the hip area, often described as a sharp or dull ache
- Clicking, popping, or locking sensation in the hip joint
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the affected hip joint
- Weakness in the affected hip muscles
Risk factors for hip labral tears include
- Sports that involve repetitive hip movements, such as soccer, hockey, and ballet
- Structural abnormalities in the hip joint, such as hip dysplasia
Treatment
A mix of rest, physical therapy, and painkillers is frequently used to treat hip labral tears. In some circumstances, surgery may be required for the injured labrum to be repaired. The damaged tissue can be removed or repaired surgically using an arthroscopic procedure, or a hip replacement can be performed in more challenging situations.
Cancer
It can cause hip bone pain when it spreads (metastasizes) to the hip bones. This is known as bone metastasis, a common complication of several types of cancer, including breast, lung, and prostate cancer.
When cancer cells spread to the hip bone, they can weaken the bone and cause pain and discomfort.
Symptoms of bone metastasis in the hip may include
- Deep, aching pain in the hip, thigh, or groin
- Pain that worsens with activity or at night
- Swelling, tenderness, or warmth in the affected area
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the hip joint
- In some cases, bone metastasis in the hip may cause fractures or other complications, such as nerve compression.
Treatment
Treatment for bone metastasis in the hip typically focuses on managing pain and other symptoms. Options may include medication to manage pain and inflammation, radiation therapy to shrink cancer and relieve pain, or surgery to stabilize the bone or remove damaged tissue.
Read More: Hip Flexor Pain: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment
How Do I Get My Hip Bone to Stop Hurting?
The underlying cause will determine the best course of treatment for hip pain. The following general advice may help reduce hip bone pain:
Rest
Avoid any activities or movements that cause pain in the hip bone. Take a break and rest the area.
Ice or heat therapy
Add heat or ice to the affected area to lessen pain and inflammation. Heat therapy may be more advantageous for chronic problems, while ice therapy can aid with acute injuries.
Over-the-counter pain relievers
Ibuprofen or acetaminophen are examples of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) that can be used to treat pain and inflammation.
Physical therapy
Physical therapy exercises can strengthen the muscles surrounding the hip joint, increase flexibility, and lessen pain.
Assistive devices
Using a cane, crutches, or other assistive devices can help take pressure off the hip joint and alleviate pain.
Weight loss
Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce pressure on the hip joint, which may help alleviate pain.
How to Relieve Hip Pain?
The treatment for hip pain depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Here are some professional approaches to relieving hip pain:
Medication
Acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) are painkillers that can help lessen discomfort and inflammation. Moreover, prescription drugs such as corticosteroids or muscle relaxants may be employed.
Physical therapy
A physical therapist can create an individualized exercise plan to increase the range of motion, build muscle, and lessen pain. Utilizing manual therapy, like massage or joint mobilization, is also possible.
Injections
Corticosteroid injections may reduce inflammation and pain in the hip joint. Hyaluronic acid injections may also provide cushioning and lubrication to the joint.
Surgery
If conservative treatments do not provide relief, surgery may be necessary. Hip replacement surgery may be recommended for severe osteoarthritis or other degenerative joint conditions.
Assistive devices
Using a cane, crutches, or other assistive devices can help take pressure off the hip joint and alleviate pain.
How Do I Know if My Hip Pain is Severe?
The source and intensity of your hip pain will determine how bad it is. Here are some signs that your hip pain may be painful and require immediate medical attention:
Intense pain
If your hip pain is intense and sudden and cannot be relieved with over-the-counter pain medication, it may be a sign of a severe condition that requires immediate medical attention.
Swelling
Swelling or inflammation around the hip joint can indicate a severe condition, such as an infection or a fracture.
Stiffness
If you experience difficulty moving the hip joint or if the joint feels stiff or immobile, it may be a sign of a severe condition.
Fever
A fever and hip pain can be signs of an infection, a severe condition.
Numbness or tingling
Numbness or tingling in the hip or down the leg may indicate a nerve problem that has to be treated by a doctor.
Difficulty bearing weight
If you cannot bear weight on the affected hip, it may indicate a severe condition, such as a fracture or dislocation.
Chronic Hip Pain Management at Home
If you have chronic hip pain, there are some things you can do at home to help manage the pain:
Exercise
Walking, swimming, or cycling are low-impact workouts that can increase the hip range of motion and strengthen the muscles surrounding the joint, which can help lessen pain.
Heat or ice therapy
Hip pain and inflammation can be lessened by applying heat or ice to the troubled hip. While ice therapy can help numb the area and reduce swelling, heat therapy can assist in relaxing muscles and promoting blood flow.
Stretching
Exercises that gently stretch the muscles around the hips can increase flexibility and lessen strain.
Weight management
Reducing hip joint tension and pain reduction can be accomplished by maintaining a healthy weight.
Proper posture
Maintaining proper posture can assist in easing pain and lessen the strain on the hip joint.
Rest
Resting the hip joint and taking pauses can assist in lessening pain and inflammation. Stress and strain can worsen hip discomfort, so relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing might also help.
When to Consult a Doctor?
If you are experiencing hip bone pain, a doctor should always be consulted, especially if the pain is severe, lingering, or worsening. Here are some specific scenarios where you should consider getting medical help:
You have suffered a fall or other injury
Suppose you have recently fallen or had a traumatic injury and are experiencing hip bone pain. In that case, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately, as you may have a fracture or other serious injury.
The discomfort is preventing you from going about your usual business
Visit a healthcare professional if the hip bone pain is severe enough to interfere with your ability to perform daily activities, such as walking, standing, or climbing stairs.
Other symptoms accompany the pain
If you are experiencing other symptoms along with hip bone pain, such as swelling, fever, or difficulty urinating. In that case, You should consult a doctor as soon as possible because these symptoms can indicate something more dangerous is underneath.
The discomfort lasts for many days or longer
If the pain persists for over a few days, despite rest and over-the-counter pain medication, seeking medical attention is a good idea.
Having a history of hip problems
Suppose you have a history of hip problems, such as arthritis or previous hip surgeries, and are experiencing hip bone pain. You should consult a doctor to determine if the pain relates to your last hip issues.
FAQs about Hip Pain Answered by Your Doctors Online Team.
Red flags for hip pain are warning signs that indicate a potentially serious underlying condition that requires immediate medical attention. Here are some red flags for hip pain:
1. Sudden and severe pain
2. Pain that wakes you up at night
3. Difficulty moving the leg or hip
4. Fever or chills
5. Redness or swelling
6. Recent injury
A tumor in the hip can cause a range of symptoms, depending on the tumor’s location, size, and type. Pain is a common symptom and may be felt in the hip, groin, or thigh and can be dull, aching, or sharp, worsening over time. Swelling or a lump in the hip, thigh, or groin area is another possible sign of a tumor. A tumor in the hip can cause stiffness or limited range of motion in the hip joint, making it difficult to walk or perform other activities, as well as leg or hip weakness, making it difficult to stand or bear weight on the affected leg.
In some cases, a tumor in the hip can weaken the bone, raising the risk of hip fracture, which can result in excruciating pain and make walking difficult. Numbness or tingling in the hip, leg, or foot may occur if the tumor presses a nerve. Additionally, a tumor in the hip can cause fatigue or weakness as the body tries to fight off cancer. Early diagnosis and treatment of hip tumors are critical for effectively managing and preventing further complications.
Yes, Hip pain can be caused by various factors, including lower back problems like herniated discs or spinal stenosis, pelvic issues such as pelvic girdle pain or hip bursitis, reproductive problems like endometriosis or ovarian cysts in women, injuries to the hip or surrounding areas, arthritis affecting the hip or other joints, and nerve problems such as sciatica or meralgia paresthetica. Identifying the root cause of hip pain is essential for properly treating and managing symptoms.
A hip X-ray can sometimes show tumors or other abnormalities in the bones or soft tissues around the hip joint. However, not all tumors are visible on X-ray; other imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans may be necessary to better look at the affected area. Additionally, X-rays may not be the first-line imaging test if a tumor is suspected, as other tests like MRI may be more sensitive for detecting certain types of tumors.
