Hip pain is a common complaint that can develop from many different causes. Pain felt inside the hip joint or groin often relates to the hip joint itself, while pain felt on the outside of the hip, upper thigh, or buttock is more commonly due to muscles, ligaments, tendons, or other soft tissues. In some cases, hip pain may also originate from the lower back. Symptoms may range from a dull ache to sharp or pinching pain.
Understanding Risk Factors of Hip Pain
Factors that may increase the likelihood of hip pain include:
- Age – wear and tear may become more common with age
- Lifestyle – being overweight, inactivity, or certain sleeping positions
- Athletes – repetitive hip motion (running, jumping, pivoting)
- Previous hip injury – past trauma can increase future sensitivity
- Occupation – heavy lifting, repetitive movements, prolonged standing or walking
- Pregnancy – hormonal changes and additional pelvic pressure