Hip pain can happen for many reasons from joint problems to nerve issues.
Knowing what might be causing the pain is the first step to getting the right treatment.
Here are 8 common causes of hip pain to know about:
1. Osteoarthritis
This is a wear-and-tear disease where the cushioning in the hip joint wears away. It causes pain, stiffness, and makes it hard to move.
2. Bursitis
Bursae are small sacs filled with fluid that help reduce friction in joints. When they get swollen (usually on the outer side of the hip), it can be very painful.
3. Tendonitis
Tendons connect muscles to bones. If they get irritated from too much use or movement, they become inflamed, leading to pain especially after resting.
4. Labral Tear
The labrum is a piece of cartilage in your hip. A tear here can cause sharp pain, make your hip feel unstable, or cause a clicking or catching feeling.
5. Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)
This happens when the bones of the hip don’t fit together properly. Over time, this can damage the joint and cause pain, especially in active younger adults.
6. Hip Fracture
A break in the hip bone usually due to a fall or weak bones (osteoporosis). This is serious and often needs surgery right away.
7. Sciatica
This is nerve pain that starts in your lower back and travels through your hip and leg. It happens when the sciatic nerve is irritated or pinched.
8. Sacroiliitis
This is inflammation in the joints where your spine meets your pelvis. It can cause pain in the lower back and hips, especially when standing for a long time or moving certain ways.
If your hip pain doesn’t go away or gets worse, see a doctor.They can help find the cause and suggest the best treatment.