7 Signs Your Hip Pain Is Something More Than Just a Pain

Recently updated

The hip joint is not only the body's largest joint, but it is also a common site of joint-related pain due to a variety of factors, therefore hip discomfort can afflict people of any age.

So, what are the major causes? When can you say your hip discomfort is 'chronic'? Here's what you should know.

The most common reasons for hip pain

Various illnesses can cause hip pain. On one end of the spectrum, you may have a strained muscle, an irritated nerve, or an inflamed tendon. On the other end of the scale, there may be an injury, fracture, or infection. Hip pain can also be "referred pain," which means it is caused by an issue in another part of your body, such as a lower back condition.

Arthritis, especially osteoarthritis, often causes discomfort and stiffness in the hip joint. Obesity is a major risk factor for osteoarthritis and can also cause hip pain.

What are the first signs of hip problems?

Hip disorders typically cause discomfort in the hip joint or groin, although the location, timing, and symptoms vary depending on the type of condition.

For example, if you have a strained muscle or an inflamed tendon near one of your hip joints, you may experience discomfort in your upper thigh or outside your hip. A bone fracture can result in swelling, bruising, and loss of movement.

Osteoarthritis can cause hip discomfort, stiffness, muscular weakening, clicking noises, and grating sensations when moving the joint.

How do I know if I have chronic hip pain?

Pain is divided into two categories: acute and chronic. Acute pain is typically short-lived and occurs in response to an injury, whereas chronic pain can linger for more than three months.

Signs to watch for hip pain

If you're not sure whether your hip pain is a cause for concern or when you should see a hip pain doctor about it, the following symptoms are a good starting point. Seek medical attention if any of the following apply to you.

- An accident has caused hip pain: If you are experiencing hip pain as a result of a fall, you may have injured your hip joint. Hip discomfort can also be caused by a fracture at the head of the femur, the thigh bone to which the hip joint's 'ball' is attached.

- If your hip pain is sudden and acute, or you can't move your hips or put your weight on your legs, see your doctor right away.

- Swelling in the area can indicate a bone fracture, especially if it comes with a lack of movement.

- If you have a fever of 38°C and hip pain, it may indicate septic arthritis. This is a rare ailment, but it necessitates immediate medical attention, so call your doctor as soon as possible if you are concerned. Symptoms of a hip infection may include abrupt discomfort or tenderness, fever, swelling, redness, and trouble moving the joint.

- The pain in your hip is continuous. Chronic pain affects the quality of life and may suggest hip osteoarthritis. Getting an official diagnosis from your doctor is crucial for developing a treatment plan.

- The hip pain therapies that you have been utilizing are no longer working. Even if you've been diagnosed with osteoarthritis and are actively employing joint pain management methods to manage it, keep in mind that pain from osteoarthritis might vary over time. Various drugs and treatments may be necessary to control pain.   

- Your hip pain, or the movement limitations it causes, interferes with your daily life. Consider discussing hip replacement surgery with your doctor if you are experiencing difficulty sleeping, self-care, everyday tasks, or engaging in enjoyable activities.

Hip pain exercises

For those suffering from hip osteoarthritis, frequent muscle-strengthening exercises can alleviate discomfort and reduce pressure on the joints. Before beginning any strengthening training program, consult with your doctor or physiotherapist to ensure a safe start.