Hip pain can affect anyone—from young athletes to older adults. It’s a common issue that can quickly become more than just an inconvenience—especially when it affects your ability to move freely or do the things you love.
But how do you know if it’s something minor—or a bigger issue that needs a professional’s attention?
In this guide, we’ll explore some common causes of hip pain, at-home strategies to relieve pain, and signs that it’s time to see a doctor. You’ll also find expert advice from Hip Specialist, Dr. David Schroder, to help you understand what your symptoms may be telling you.
When to See a Doctor About Hip Pain
Pain that disrupts daily activities is not only inconvenient—it’s a warning sign.
Dr. Schroder puts it this way: “When pain starts to expand beyond just the event where it occurs… when it becomes sort of a constant presence, especially when you have to plan your day around it, that’s when you want to see us.”
Not all aches warrant a doctor’s visit, but certain symptoms should prompt you to seek medical attention:
- Persistent Pain: Pain that continues for more than a few days, despite rest or over-the-counter medications, may indicate a deeper issue.
- Difficulty with Daily Activities: “When the pain starts to interfere with what we call activities of daily living—going to the store, driving your car, going to work—that’s when you want to see someone,” says Dr. Schroder.
- Sudden or Severe Pain: Sudden, intense pain after a fall, injury, or accident should be evaluated immediately.
- Visible Changes: Swelling, deformity, or inability to move your hip normally requires medical care.
- Recurring Pain: Chronic discomfort that disrupts your daily life—or causes you to skip activities or change routines—should not be ignored.
Don’t wait for pain to become unbearable. Early treatment can help you avoid more complicated issues down the road.
Understanding Hip Anatomy
The hip joint is one of the largest and most important joints in your body. It’s a ball-and-socket joint formed by the pelvis and femur (thighbone), surrounded by muscles, tendons, cartilage, and ligaments that work together to provide stability and motion.
Activities like running, walking, climbing stairs, or even prolonged sitting can place significant stress on your hip by repeatedly engaging muscles and tendons surrounding the joint. When these muscles or tendons are overused, inflamed, or injured, they can throw your entire hip out of balance.
Common Causes of Hip Pain
Hip pain can stem from many sources—everyday wear and tear, acute injuries, or even problems originating in other areas of the body.
Dr. Schroder emphasizes the importance of considering age, duration of symptoms, and location of the pain in determining the cause. These factors can provide valuable clues about the source of your hip pain.
- Front of the Hip (Groin Pain): Commonly linked to hip arthritis, especially in older adults. Hip arthritis pain is often described as a deep, aching pain or discomfort.
- Outer Hip (Lateral Hip Pain): Typical of hip bursitis or tendonitis. Pain may worsen when lying on your side or climbing stairs.
- General or Widespread Hip Pain: Could point to a labral tear. Pain may occur after sitting for long periods of time. You may also experience a “locking” or snapping sensation.
- Back of the Hip (Posterior Hip Pain): Often related to the piriformis muscle, hamstrings, or even referred pain from your lower back.
Understanding these potential causes allows for a more accurate diagnosis and a targeted treatment plan.
At-Home Relief & Conservative Treatments
For many people, mild hip pain can be managed at home with the right care and caution. If your pain is new, manageable, and not affecting your ability to move, try these steps:
- Rest and Recovery: Limit the activity that triggers pain. Apply ice packs to reduce inflammation and swelling.
- Gentle Stretching: Simple stretches focusing on hip flexibility can ease muscle tightness and improve joint mobility.
- Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can temporarily alleviate pain and inflammation. Be cautious not to overuse these medications, especially if symptoms persist beyond a few days.
- Activity Modification and Proper Footwear: Adjusting your daily activities and wearing supportive shoes can significantly reduce stress on your hip.
⚠️ Note: It’s important to understand the limits of self-care. If symptoms worsen, or if home remedies provide relief within a few days, it’s essential to seek medical advice.
Hip Pain Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing hip pain starts with a thorough physical exam. Providers assess where the pain is located, how it affects movement, and whether any muscle weakness or tenderness is present. Imaging tests—like X-rays or MRIs—may be used to confirm or rule out specific causes.
Depending on your condition, your plan might include:
- Physical therapy to improve mobility and strength
- Anti-inflammatory injections to reduce swelling and irritation
- Guided exercises to support the hip joint and improve muscle function
Minimally Invasive Options
If symptoms persist, minimally invasive techniques such as arthroscopic surgery may be recommended to repair structural damage.
Dr. Schroder notes that not only do these procedures involve smaller incisions than traditional surgeries, they also minimize disturbance beneath the skin. “The real crux of minimal invasive surgery is how little we disrupt your musculature, your tendons, your blood vessels, your nerves. Because the less we disturb what you have, the faster your recovery.”
When to Consider Hip Replacement
Patients with advanced joint damage may consider hip replacement surgery—a procedure where the worn-out parts of the hip joint are replaced with durable prosthetics. Joint replacement is generally considered a last resort, explored only after unsuccessful attempts with alternative treatments.
But how do you know it’s time for hip replacement?
“We really put it in your hands,” Dr. Schroder says. “Two key factors: When the pain starts to get you every day… and when it starts to affect who you are and what you like to do.”
If your symptoms are impacting your identity or independence, it may be time to explore surgical options.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Ignore Lingering Pain
Hip pain isn’t always serious, but it should never be ignored. From overuse injuries to arthritis, your hip may be telling you it’s time to slow down—or get help.
Listen to your body, try safe home strategies, and when in doubt, consult a specialist. With early care and the right plan, most hip issues can be managed or completely resolved.
Feeling held back by hip pain? Schedule a consultation with one of our orthopedic experts today and take your first step toward relief.
Featured Physician: Dr. David Schroder
Board-Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon – Specializing in Hip and Knee Care
Dr. David Schroder is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon with over two decades of experience diagnosing and treating joint conditions. Known for his approachable, honest communication style, Dr. Schroder combines technical skill with a deep respect for patient goals.
His areas of expertise include:
- Total and partial hip replacement
- Joint preservation techniques
- Minimally invasive hip surgery
- Revision hip procedures
Whether he’s treating a weekend warrior or someone struggling with long-term arthritis, Dr. Schroder’s goal is simple: help patients get back to doing what they love—without pain getting in the way.
