When you first stand up, you experience a dull ache in your hip. You ignore it; perhaps you slept in an odd position, walked too far, or sat for too long. Weeks pass, though, and that obstinate pain becomes a regular part of your day. Do you recognise this?
Many people attempt to “walk off” or ignore hip pain until it becomes a hindrance to everyday activities like climbing stairs, sitting comfortably, or getting a good night’s sleep. But could your hip pain be an indication of something more serious, or is it simply a result of overuse?
Common (and Not-So-Common) Causes of Hip Pain
There are many different reasons why people get hip pain, ranging from common strain to illnesses that need medical care. The hip itself may not always be the source of the pain; problems with the lower back or pelvis may “refer” hip pain.
Here are some usual suspects:
- Muscle strain or overuse from activities like running, cycling, or long periods of sitting
- Hip bursitis, which causes inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs cushioning the joint
- Osteoarthritis, where the cartilage in your hip wears down over time
- Sciatica, where irritation of the sciatic nerve can cause pain radiating into the hip and leg
And then there are the more serious red flags:
- Hip fractures, particularly common in older adults or after a fall
- Labral tears, involving the cartilage that lines your hip socket
- Infections or tumours, though rare, can also manifest as persistent hip pain
Signs It’s Time to See an Orthopaedic Specialist
So how do you know when hip pain crosses the line from “annoying” to “needs medical attention”? Specialists suggest watching for these warning signs:
- Pain that persists for more than 2 weeks despite rest
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the hip joint
- Pain that interferes with sleep or daily tasks
- Clicking, locking, or instability in the hip
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg
An orthopaedic spine or hip specialist can offer a correct diagnosis, imaging if required, and a treatment plan customised for your condition and lifestyle, so it’s a good idea to speak with one if any of these sound familiar.
Book Your Consultation Today
Although hip pain doesn’t always require surgery or intensive care, ignoring the symptoms can cause minor problems to worsen. Your body is more intelligent than you may realise; it can tell you when it needs care. You just need to pay attention.
Our physicians at Orthopaedic Spine Specialist are prepared to assist you in determining the true cause of your hip pain and regaining your range of motion. Don’t wait until it sidelines your life, book a consultation today and take the first step toward lasting relief.
