Hip Pain

Rheumatology, Women's Health

I get so many young and older people coming into my office with this symptom.  As a runner and cyclist, I have experienced this condition myself.   

Individuals may complain of:

  • Pain between the hip and knee, groin area, outer buttocks or on the lateral part of the hip
  • Pain lying on one side or soreness during or after exercise
  • Stiffness with getting up from a chair, bending down or putting on shoes
  • Limping
  • Swelling that can occur on the outer skin and muscle surrounding the hip and may become chronic and severe

Here are some causes of hip pain:

  1. Arthritis- Osteoarthritis or “degenerative arthritis” is the most common cause. Often individuals will experience “groin pain. Rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis can also cause hip pain
  2. Tendonitis and trochanteric bursitis. The tendons around the hip become inflamed with strain especially if the iliotibial band (a thick tissue that runs from the outer pelvis to the outside of the knee) is involved.  Fluid-filled sacs called bursae to provide cushion to the bony part of the hip and can get irritated from overuse or when you move the hip joint.
  3. Labral tears occur when the ring of cartilage that connects and holds in place the hip’s ball and socket joint is injured.
  4. Osteoporosis can lead to fractures
  5. Avascular necrosis- Cigarette smoking, alcohol, and steroids can result in reduced blood flow to bone tissue and cause bone death.
  6. non-musculoskeletal causes such as femoral or inguinal hernias can cause pain in the front of the hip in women. Pregnant women may have increased risk because of added abdominal wall pressure.
  7. Low back pain can radiate from the spine to the buttocks and hips and cause sciatica or a “pinched nerve”
  8. Don’t’ forget other gynecological issues like endometriosis!
  9. Infections, Sickle Cell Crisis, and Cancer should also be considered!
  10. Other common causes can include trauma, overuse

Treatment depends on depending on the cause for hip pain.

  • Stretching foam rollers can help prevent hip injuries
  • Walking can help alleviate pain and stiffness slowly
  • Anti-inflammatory medications such as Ibuprofen or Naproxen or (speak with your doctor) your 
  • REST
  • Weight loss and lifestyle modification
  • Surgery for hernia and fracture