Pain in the hip can originate from the joint itself, from the surrounding tendons or an irritated bursa — and sometimes it even radiates from the back into the hip region. Where exactly it hurts (groin, outer side or buttock) and with which movement helps with the assessment. The range extends from harmless overuse to age-related joint wear.
Possible causes
Wear and tear (osteoarthritis)
One of the most common causes in middle and older age: The pain is often located in the groin, is load-dependent and is accompanied by morning start-up pain. Osteoarthritis can be kept in check well with movement and targeted measures.
Tendon and bursa irritation
Pain on the outer side of the hip that increases when lying on your side and when climbing stairs often indicates irritation of tendons or bursa. This is usually harmless and improves with relief.
Overuse
After unaccustomed exertion, long hikes or intensive sport, the hip muscles and tendons can be overloaded. Such complaints usually subside again with rest.
Radiation from the back
Sometimes the supposed hip pain does not come from the hip at all, but radiates from the lower back or from an irritated nerve root. The examination helps to distinguish this.
Typical steps at the doctor's office
- 1The doctor will ask where exactly it hurts and with which movement, and will then check mobility, gait pattern and pressure points. This usually makes it possible to distinguish whether the joint, the tendons or the back is the source.
- 2Depending on the suspicion, imaging follows: X-ray shows the joint and bone, ultrasound shows the tendons and bursa, an MRI shows soft tissues in detail if needed.
- 3Treatment almost always begins conservatively: targeted physiotherapy, relief and anti-inflammatory measures as directed by your doctor if needed. Joint replacement only becomes an option in cases of very advanced wear and severe distress.
What you can do yourself
- Focus on joint-friendly movement such as cycling or swimming, which place less strain on the hip than jogging on hard ground.
- Strengthen the hip-stabilizing gluteal and leg muscles — strong muscles noticeably relieve the joint.
- Reduce excess weight where possible: every kilo less relieves the hip with every step.
- If you have pain on the outer side, it may help not to lie on the affected side at night.
A doctor's visit makes sense if the pain persists for longer than one to two weeks, recurs, limits walking or disturbs you at night. Increasing start-up pain or decreasing mobility are also good reasons for an examination.
Frequently asked questions
- Does hip pain always come from the joint?
- No. Often the cause is located in the tendons or the bursa on the outer side, and sometimes the pain even radiates from the back. Where exactly it hurts helps the doctor make the distinction.
- Does movement or rest help better?
- Generally movement. Joint-friendly activity and targeted strengthening are more effective for most hip complaints than strict rest, which weakens the muscles.
- Do I need a new joint right away?
- In the vast majority of cases, no. Joint replacement only comes into consideration in cases of very advanced wear and high levels of distress. Conservative treatment is always tried first.
Not sure whether you should go or whom to see? Describe your symptoms — we'll find the right practice in your area.