Osteoarthritis is one of the important causes of hip pain, particularly in older adults.
It involves changes to the joint’s cartilage and other tissues over time.
Symptoms can include:
Pain during movement
Stiffness
Reduced range of motion
Difficulty putting on socks or shoes
Difficulty getting into or out of a car
Pain after prolonged activity
Hip arthritis can gradually affect everyday activities.
Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and may involve exercise, physical therapy, weight management when appropriate, pain-management strategies, medications, and sometimes surgery.
4. Bursitis and Other Soft-Tissue Problems
Bursae are small fluid-filled sacs that help reduce friction between tissues.
Inflammation or irritation around these structures can produce pain around the hip.
Pain may become worse with pressure or repetitive movement.
However, what people commonly call “hip bursitis” can actually involve several different structures, including tendons around the outside of the hip.
A medical examination can help determine the source.
5. Injuries and Fractures
A fall or direct impact can injure the hip and surrounding tissues.
A fracture is particularly important to consider after a significant fall, especially in older adults or people with weakened bones.
Possible warning signs include:
Severe hip or groin pain
Inability to put weight on the leg
Difficulty standing
Significant swelling or bruising
A leg that appears unusually positioned
A suspected hip fracture requires urgent medical evaluation.
6. Pain Coming From the Lower Back
Sometimes what feels like hip pain actually originates in the spine.
Problems involving nerves in the lower back can produce pain that travels through the buttock and down the leg.
This may be accompanied by:
Tingling
Numbness
Burning pain
Weakness
Pain that changes with certain back movements
This type of pain can be quite different from pain originating inside the hip joint.
