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Hip Pain
Understanding Hip Pain
Hip pain is a frequent complaint, especially among older adults, often due to arthritis. However, it can affect people of all ages as a result of injury, overuse, or medical conditions involving the bones or soft tissues in the hip area—or even other parts of the body. Since every case is different, the specific location of the pain is a key indicator in identifying the underlying cause.
Hip Joint Arthritis
Arthritis is a condition that leads to inflammation in the joints throughout the body. When it affects the hip, it can cause discomfort, particularly during movement.
Musculoskeletal Pain
Musculoskeletal pain is a widespread issue with a variety of underlying causes, which can make it challenging for doctors to pinpoint the exact source.
Osteoporosis
According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, nearly 10 million Americans have the condition, while another 44 million have low bone density, increasing their risk of developing osteoporosis.
Piriformis Syndrome
The piriformis muscle is located deep in the buttocks and connects the lower spine (sacrum) to the upper thigh bone (femur) on both sides of the body.
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
The sacroiliac (SI) joint is where your spine connects to your pelvis, located at the base of the spine near the tailbone.
Sacroiliitis
Scoliosis refers to an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine. It most often begins during the growth spurt that occurs just before puberty.
Sciatica
Sciatica refers to pain, weakness, or numbness that travels along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the buttocks and down the leg. It usually affects only one side of the body.
Common Symptoms of Hip Pain
Pain in the hip can be felt in various areas. It may be located deep in the groin (indicating a problem inside the hip joint), but it might also be felt:
- On the outer part of the hip
- In the upper thigh
- Around the outer buttock
- Along the leg, due to nerve involvement
The discomfort might affect just one hip or both. You may notice pain while walking or lifting a leg. Other frequent symptoms include:
- Pain that intensifies with continued movement or specific activities
- Discomfort during walking or jogging
- Stiffness or reduced mobility in the hip
- Limping
- A dull, persistent ache inside or around the hip
Daily activities can contribute to hip pain too. For instance, runners may develop hip issues due to overuse, which can lead to conditions like bursitis—characterized by a dull ache, a snapping sensation, or a burning feeling on the outer hip. Even temporary use of crutches can lead to discomfort, as it alters normal body mechanics and forces the hips to move differently, disrupting balance.
Hip pain can limit your ability to walk or enjoy activities such as sports or dancing. It’s important not to ignore the symptoms, as untreated hip problems may become more serious over time.
What Causes Hip Pain?
Hip pain can stem from a variety of sources. While joint issues are often the cause, discomfort in the hip can also result from conditions in other areas, such as the lower back or groin (known as referred pain). A pinched nerve in the spine, for example, may lead to pain that radiates to the hip.
Common causes include:
- Arthritis
- Injuries (e.g., fractures, sprains)
- Joint overuse
- Infections
- Bone cancer
Hip pain can also result from problems in:
- The bones
- Ligaments
- Tendons
- Muscles
- Tissues surrounding the joint
Each of these structures plays a role in hip function, and issues with any of them can lead to discomfort and mobility limitations.
Pain Clinic Locations
Gilbert Office
1466 West Elliot Rd
Gilbert, AZ 85233
Phone: 480-496-2699
Fax: 877-422-3184
Tempe Office
(Procedure Location)
2000 E Southern Ave
Suite 106/108
Tempe, AZ 85282
Casa Grande Office
(Satellite Office)
1637 E Monument Plaza Circle
Suite 1
Casa Grande, AZ 85122