Hip Pain: What Does It Mean?
Hip pain can range from a mild nuisance to a debilitating ache—and because the hip is a complex joint connected to your spine, pelvis, and legs, pain can originate from the hip itself or be “referred” from nearby structures. Understanding the likely cause helps you respond wisely.
🔍 Common Causes of Hip Pain (By Location)
Pain on the Outside of the Hip
Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS)
What it is: Inflammation of the tendons or bursa on the outer side of the hip
Symptoms: Aching or sharp pain on the outside of the hip; worse when lying on that side, climbing stairs, or standing up from a chair
Who gets it: Women, middle-aged adults, runners, and people with IT band tightness
What helps: Physical therapy, stretching, ice, anti-inflammatory medications
What it is: Tightness of the iliotibial band (a thick band of tissue running from hip to knee)
Symptoms: Pain on the outer hip and knee, especially during running or walking
What helps: Stretching, foam rolling, strengthening gluteal muscles
Pain in the Front of the Hip (Groin Area)
What it is: Wear-and-tear of the cartilage in the hip joint
Symptoms: Gradual onset of deep, aching pain in the groin or front of the thigh; stiffness in the morning; pain worsens with activity
Who gets it: Adults over 50; people with family history or previous hip injury
What helps: Weight management, physical therapy, pain management, joint replacement if severe
What it is: Tear in the cartilage ring that seals the hip socket
Symptoms: Sharp catching or clicking sensation in the groin; stiffness; feeling that the hip is “locking”
Who gets it: Athletes (especially soccer, hockey, golf), people with hip impingement
What helps: Physical therapy, activity modification, sometimes surgery
What it is: Bony overgrowth causing abnormal contact between the ball and socket
Symptoms: Groin pain, stiffness, reduced range of motion
Who gets it: Young, active adults; athletes
What helps: Physical therapy, activity modification, sometimes surgery
Pain in the Back of the Hip / Buttock Area
What it is: Pinched nerve in the lower back sending pain to the hip and leg
Symptoms: Sharp, burning, or electric-shock pain radiating from the lower back into the buttock and down the leg; numbness or tingling