Is your hip pain actually a sign of something bigger?

Hip pain is a common complaint, particularly as people age. While it is often attributed to overuse or arthritis, in some cases, hip pain can be a sign of more serious underlying conditions. Recognising when your hip pain is something to take more seriously can help in seeking appropriate treatment before the condition worsens. Here to tell us more about it is a leading consultant orthopaedic surgeon with specialised expertise in hip and knee surgery.

What are the most common causes of hip pain?

The most typical causes of hip pain include:

• Osteoarthritis: This degenerative joint condition causes pain, stiffness and reduced mobility. It often worsens with age and can be managed with lifestyle changes, physiotherapy or in severe cases, surgery.
• Hip bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae (fluid-filled sacs that cushion the hip joint) can cause pain, especially when sitting or moving. Bursitis can develop after repetitive stress on the hip.
• Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons surrounding the hip joint is another common cause of pain, often linked to overuse from physical activity or sports.
• Muscle strain: Overstretching or tearing the muscles around the hip can cause pain that may mimic joint issues.

When should I be concerned about hip pain?

While these common causes are often treatable with non-invasive measures, some forms of hip pain may be a symptom of something more serious:

• Fractures: In older adults, particularly those with osteoporosis, a hip fracture can result from even a minor fall or trauma. This is a medical emergency, as hip fractures can lead to severe complications if not treated promptly.
• Avascular necrosis: This condition occurs when the blood supply to the hip joint is reduced, leading to the death of bone tissue. It can cause persistent pain that worsens over time and requires urgent treatment to prevent joint collapse.
• Infections: In rare cases, hip pain can be caused by an infection in the joint, known as septic arthritis. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, and fever, and this condition needs immediate medical attention.
• Referred pain: Sometimes, hip pain might not originate in the hip at all. Conditions affecting the spine, such as a herniated disc or spinal stenosis, can cause referred pain to the hip area. This is often accompanied by leg pain or weakness.

When should I seek medical advice for hip pain?

If your hip pain persists or is accompanied by symptoms such as swelling, redness or fever, it is essential to consult a doctor. Sudden, severe hip pain after a fall or injury should also be evaluated urgently, as it could indicate a fracture. Additionally, pain that interferes with your daily activities or sleep should not be ignored. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further complications and improve your quality of life.

If you experience hip pain alongside other symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, fever or difficulty walking, it may signal an underlying condition that requires immediate medical attention.

Are you experiencing hip pain? Arrange a consultation with Mr Hampton via his Top Doctors profile.