Hip pain can mean many different things, depending on where the pain is, how it feels, and what you’ve been doing. Most of the time it’s related to muscles, joints, or activity levels, but sometimes it can point to something that needs medical attention.
Here’s a clear, general guide.
Common Causes of Hip Pain
1. Muscle Strain or Overuse
Very common, especially if you:
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Walk, run, or stand a lot
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Play sports
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Sit for long periods
Pain feels like:
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Soreness or aching
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Worse with movement
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Improves with rest
2. Joint or Alignment Issues
The hip is a major weight-bearing joint.
Possible causes include:
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Poor posture
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Uneven leg length
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Tight hip flexors or glutes
Pain feels like:
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Deep ache in the hip or groin
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Stiffness, especially after sitting
3. Inflammation (Bursitis or Tendonitis)
Inflammation around the hip joint can cause pain.
Pain feels like:
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Sharp or burning pain on the outer hip
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Tenderness when lying on that side
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Pain that worsens with repeated movement
4. Growth or Development (Teens)
For teens, hip pain can sometimes be related to:
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Growth spurts
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Increased sports activity
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Muscle tightness as bones grow faster than muscles
This is usually temporary but should still be monitored.
5. Referred Pain
Sometimes hip pain doesn’t start in the hip at all.
It can come from:
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Lower back
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Spine
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Knees
Pain feels like:
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Spreading or radiating discomfort
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Changes with posture
When Hip Pain Is More Concerning
You should talk to a healthcare professional if hip pain:
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Lasts more than a few days
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Gets worse instead of better
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Causes limping
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Happens after a fall or injury
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Comes with swelling, redness, or fever
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Makes it hard to walk or sleep
Sudden, severe pain always needs medical attention.
What You Can Do Right Now (General Care)
For mild hip pain:
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Rest and avoid painful activities
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Use ice for soreness or heat for stiffness
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Gentle stretching (not forced)
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Maintain good posture
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Wear supportive footwear
Avoid pushing through sharp or worsening pain.
Important Note
Hip pain doesn’t automatically mean something serious, but it also shouldn’t be ignored—especially if it keeps coming back or limits movement. Only a qualified healthcare professional can diagnose the exact cause.
Bottom Line
Hip pain usually comes from muscle strain, joint stress, or inflammation, especially with activity or posture changes. Most cases improve with rest and care, but ongoing or severe pain should always be checked by a medical professional.