Why Does Your Hip Hurt? Unraveling the Causes of Hip Pain
Published: Dec 12, 2023
Hip pain is a common issue for many adults, affecting their daily lives and activities. This article explores the various causes of hip pain, helping you understand what's behind that nagging ache.
Contents
Common Causes of Hip Pain
Hip pain in adults can arise from many sources, such as injuries, arthritis, or referred pain from other areas. Younger adults might suffer from labral tears or synovitis, while older adults often face trochanteric pain syndrome or osteoarthritis. It's essential to understand these common causes to address the pain effectively.
Recognizing Dangerous Conditions
Some hip pain can signal serious medical conditions like aortoiliac arterial insufficiency or septic arthritis. These conditions require immediate attention as they can lead to significant complications if untreated. Recognizing the signs early can prevent severe outcomes.

The Role of Nerve Problems
Nerve compression or radiculopathy can also manifest as hip pain, often accompanied by tingling or weakness. Such nerve-related issues can be tricky to diagnose but are crucial to consider, especially if traditional musculoskeletal causes are ruled out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Injuries, arthritis, and referred pain are common causes.
If the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by systemic symptoms, seek medical advice.
Yes, nerve compression can lead to hip pain and should be considered.
Younger adults often have labral injuries, while older adults face osteoarthritis.
The Bottom Line
Understanding the potential causes of hip pain is key to seeking the right treatment and relief.
References
- Christmas C, Crespo CJ, Franckowiak SC, et al. How common is hip pain among older adults? J Fam Pract 2002; 51:345.
- Cecchi F, Mannoni A, Molino-Lova R, et al. Epidemiology of hip and knee pain in a community based sample. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2008; 16:1039.
- Thorborg K, Rathleff MS, Petersen P, et al. Prevalence and severity of hip and groin pain. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2017; 27:107.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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