My Hip Hurts
The cause of hip pain varies depending on which movements or positions cause pain. It may not just be a hip problem, and you may also need to examine your back, shoulders, and lower back.
Hip Pain Causes by Location
Deep in the Hip (Sciatica Pattern)
Pain starts from the lower back, deep in the hip, and may extend down the leg. This usually points to a lumbar disc herniation or piriformis syndrome.
Side of Hip (Greater Trochanter Area)
The hip hurts when you lie on that side, and it gets worse climbing stairs. This usually comes from greater trochanter bursitis or a gluteus medius problem.
Upper Hip (Lower Back-Hip Junction)
Pain sits at the boundary between the lower back and hip. This often traces back to the sacroiliac joint or the lumbar fascia.
Toward the Groin
It becomes hard to stand up from sitting or to spread the legs. This usually involves the hip joint itself, such as arthritis or synovitis.
Lower Back and Hips Are Closely Connected
Many hip pain cases start from the lower back. Treating only the hip leads to recurrence, so you need to treat both the lower back and hip together for it to work.
Hip Pain During Rotational Sports?
If your hip hurts during twisting movements like golf or tennis, you may need to treat your back or shoulders rather than your hip. Limited upper body rotation forces the pelvis and hips to rotate excessively.
Circulation Treatment Resolves Hip Pain
- Circulation HD. Release piriformis, gluteal muscles, and fascia
- Circulation PT. Improve hip mobility, restore muscle balance
Frequently Asked Questions
References
- Khan AM, et al. Hip osteoarthritis masquerading as low back pain. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2004;12(4):251-259.
- Lesher JM, et al. Hip joint pain referral patterns: a descriptive study. Pain Med. 2008;9(1):22-25.
- Prather H, et al. Hip and pelvic injuries in runners: evaluating differential diagnoses and creating a treatment algorithm. Clin Sports Med. 2006;25(2):243-258.