Hip Pain
Hip pain can have many causes, from arthritis to muscle strains. Understanding where your pain is located can help identify the underlying problem.
Understanding Hip Pain
The hip is one of the body’s largest joints and is designed for both stability and mobility. Because it bears so much of your body weight and is involved in so many movements, the hip is susceptible to various injuries and conditions.
Hip pain can originate from within the joint itself, from the surrounding muscles and tendons, or even be referred from the lower back. A thorough evaluation by Dr. Hunter can help pinpoint the source of your pain and determine the best treatment approach.
Where Does It Hurt?
The location of your hip pain can provide clues about the underlying cause.
Front of Hip / Groin
Possible causes:
- Hip arthritis
- Hip labral tear
- FAI (impingement)
- Hip flexor strain
Side of Hip
Possible causes:
- Trochanteric bursitis
- IT band syndrome
- Hip abductor tear
- Snapping hip
Back of Hip / Buttock
Possible causes:
- Piriformis syndrome
- Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
- Referred pain from spine
- Hamstring issues
Deep Inside the Joint
Possible causes:
- Hip arthritis
- Avascular necrosis
- Labral tear
- Cartilage damage
Common Causes of Hip Pain
Arthritis
Osteoarthritis causing cartilage breakdown and bone-on-bone contact
Bursitis
Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the hip
Labral Tears
Damage to the ring of cartilage surrounding the hip socket
Hip Impingement
Abnormal bone shape causing friction and damage
Tendinitis
Inflammation of tendons around the hip from overuse
Muscle Strains
Stretching or tearing of hip muscles or tendons
When to Seek Immediate Care
- Sudden, severe hip pain
- Unable to bear weight on the leg
- Hip pain after a fall or injury
- Signs of infection (fever, redness, warmth)
- Hip deformity
- Pain that wakes you from sleep
Diagnosis & Evaluation
Dr. Hunter will evaluate your hip pain through:
- 1
Detailed History
Understanding when and how your pain started
- 2
Physical Examination
Testing range of motion, strength, and specific provocation tests
- 3
Imaging
X-rays, MRI, or other imaging as needed
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of your hip pain. Options may include:
Conservative Care
- • Physical therapy
- • Anti-inflammatory medications
- • Activity modification
- • Corticosteroid injections
- • Weight management
Surgical Options
- • Hip arthroscopy
- • Labral repair
- • Hip replacement
- • Osteotomy
Related Conditions
Find out what’s causing your hip pain
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Hunter for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan.