An Overview of Hip Pain: Conditions, Causes & Treatment

hip pain conditions

The hip is a critical joint in the human body. As one of the largest and most dynamic joints, the hip essentially allows our lower bodies to function. The hip performs a dual role—it gives stability to the body by supporting the pelvis and core. Still, it also provides the power and flexibility needed to mobilize our lower extremities. 

 

Having flexible and strong hips is vital for our overall health and mobility. Unfortunately, the hip is a joint that undergoes a large amount of wear and tear, especially as people age, which can cause debilitating pain, discomfort, and loss of mobility. 

 

While hip pain is a common complaint, there are many causes behind it and different treatments. Keep reading to find out the other conditions that can lead to hip pain, both familiar and unique, and how they can be treated. 


What Causes Hip Pain? 

The hip is a ball and socket joint that allows the thigh to move in different directions. While hip pain can arise from the joint itself, it can also be caused by its structures, such as ligaments and cartilage. Any trauma, infection, chronic condition, or developmental disorder that affects a part of the hip can cause pain. 


Traumatic Hip Pain 

●   Hip Fracture: 

Over 300,000 people fracture a hip every year in the United States. The elderly especially are at increased risk of hip fractures due to the thinning of their bones (osteoporosis) and a loss of balance which increases the risk of a fall. Apart from falls, however, hip fractures can be caused by any other form of trauma.

 

●   Contusions:

Also known as bruises, contusions, sprains, and strains can cause hip pain. These injuries are usually caused by trauma to the hip and can be very painful even though the bone is not broken. Sprains are typically due to ligament injuries, while strains happen because of damage to the muscles and tendons.

 

●   Overuse:

Hip pain is very often a result of overuse of the hip joint. The hip joint performs the role of weight-bearing when we walk, jump, or run, and the structures surrounding the joint are meant to shield it from stress. Constant use can cause these muscles, tendons, and ligaments to become inflamed, leading to tendonitis, muscle or tendon strain, or a hip labral tear. 

 

●   Hip Bursitis:

Hip bursitis is an inflammation of the bursae, which are tiny, fluid-filled sacs on the outer and inner part of the hip that reduce friction between the moving parts in the joint. Inflammation of the bursa is usually due to mild trauma or overuse and can cause pain that worsens with physical activity. 


Non-Traumatic Hip Pain 

●   Arthritis:

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are both prevalent forms of arthritis, especially in those aged over fifty, and are both known to cause pain in the hip. Apart from these, ankylosing spondylitis and arthritis resulting from inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease) can also cause hip pain. 

 

●   Cancer:

Tumors that either start in the bone or spread to the bone can cause pain in the hips since they weaken the bone, leading to fractures. It also causes swelling and redness over the bone, making movement difficult. Additionally, benign tumors and cysts can also source hip pain. 

 

●   Systemic and Autoimmune Diseases:

Some systemic diseases can cause hip pain; for example, sickle cell disease or Lyme disease causes joint swelling, leading to hip pain. Autoimmune conditions like lupus can cause joint inflammation and even arthritis, which can cause hip pain. Viral or bacterial infections can cause both systemic and autoimmune diseases. 

 

●   Avascular Necrosis:

Avascular necrosis occurs when a localized part of the bone becomes dead due to loss of blood supply. It is usually a result of trauma to the area, disease, or a side effect of a prolonged medication like prednisone. Although avascular necrosis is slightly less common than the other causes of hip pain, the hip is the joint most frequently affected by this condition. 

 

●   Fibromyalgia:

Fibromyalgia is a systemic disease that causes chronic pain in the muscles and ligaments. Around 4 million people in the U.S. suffer from fibromyalgia. The pain and stiffness caused by it can manifest as hip pain and tenderness, especially in the mornings. 

 

●   Referred Pain: 

Referred pain is when another part of the body causes pain in one part of the body. Some conditions that can cause referred pain include hernias, peripheral nerves, and sciatica. 


What Are the Symptoms That Come with Hip Pain?

Symptoms of hip pain can change depending on which condition is causing the pain, but most people often have a hard time describing symptoms past the pain they experience. Below are some of the common symptoms people face from hip problems and the symptoms caused by specific conditions. 


Common Symptoms 

● Limping.

● Stiffness in the hip joint.

● Referred pain (can be felt in the knee or leg).

● Muscle stiffness.

● Pain in the leg when weight is applied.


Symptoms for Specific Conditions

  1. Fracture. Hip fractures usually cause an immediate onset of acute pain that worsens when movement in the area. There may be visible displacement in the joint or leg. If the fracture is in the pelvis, there will be no noticeable displacement, but the pain will increase with movement and weight-bearing. 

 

2. Overuse. Overuse injuries may not have immediate pain but pain that steadily worsens over the following minutes or hours. As the muscles around the joint spasm or become inflamed, the pain will worsen, causing swelling, limping, reduced movement, and a clicking or locking sensation in the hip. 

 

3. Bone Cancer. Cancer in the bone can cause intense and constant pain, regardless of whether it originated or spread there from another part of the body. It usually does not become better or worse with rest or movement. The pain may also radiate outwards from the location into neighboring body areas. 

 

4. Sciatica. This pain tends to originate from the lower back and slowly radiates down to the front or back of the hip. Sciatica pain can present differently in different people but is often described as a sharp, stabbing, or burning pain. The pain can increase when the knee is straightened by stretching the sciatica nerve. There may also be numbing or tingling in the leg or foot. 

 

5. Arthritis. Inflammatory arthritis of the hip can cause dull pain in the hip, groin, outer thigh, knee, and buttocks. Arthritis pain increases after periods of inactivity, such as after sleeping or sitting for a while, but it can also grow with vigorous activity. The pain and stiffness can become severe enough to cause limping and make walking difficult. 


How Are Hip Conditions Treated? 

Treatments for hip pain depend on the condition and the underlying cause of the pain. 

 

●   OTC Medication. Over-the-counter pain medications do not require a prescription from a medical professional. Still, they must be taken with caution as they can cause side effects or interact poorly with prescription medications. Older people should ask a healthcare professional for advice before taking OTC medication. 

 

●   Walking Aids. Crutches, a cane, or a walker are common walking aids that help people struggling to walk normally. However, they will need to be fitted to the patient’s height, and some people might require training to use them properly. They are also a short-term solution as the cause of the pain will still have to be treated. 

 

●   Exercise. An exercise program that focuses on stretching and strengthening the leg, hip, and back can help recover and improve range of motion. However, any exercise should be coordinated with a medical professional to avoid further injury. 

 

●   Prescription Medication. Prescription medication is usually given to treat the underlying cause of the hip pain rather than the pain itself. Rheumatoid arthritis, for example, can be treated with prescription medications. 

 

●   Surgery. Surgery is a standard treatment option for hip fractures. Hip replacement surgery is also one of the most common joint replacement surgeries, especially in patients with progressive arthritis. Hip arthroscopy is also used to evaluate and treat joint damage, cartilage tears, and early arthritis. 


How Can Pain Treatment Centers of America Help? 

With eleven pain treatment clinics across America and state-of-the-art pain management solutions, Pain Treatment Centers of America provides you with comprehensive solutions for your hip pain. We offer the following treatments for hip pain: 

 

● Nerve Block

● Radiofrequency Ablation

● Trigger Point Injections

● Medical Management

 

 

 

Pain Treatment Centers of America have the most combined pain management experience of any practice within the region with experts from multiple medical specialties, CLIA-certified labs, cutting-edge surgery centers, and more. To learn more about how we can help you find relief from hip pain, call us at (844) 215-0731, or visit our website today. 

The Connection Between Sleep & Chronic Pain

September 25, 2026
Chronic pain can have a variety of effects on daily life, such as impacting mobility, mood, and the general quality of life. It may also cause a significant disturbance of sleep. For those who have chronic pain, problems with falling asleep, staying asleep, or obtaining restful sleep may result in a situation where poor sleep and pain affect each other. When preparing a personalized pain management plan, Pain Treatment Centers of America considers all the various factors that may influence a patient's pain experience, including sleep. What Effect Does Sleep Have on Chronic Pain? Sleep is important for the body's capacity to recover and to regulate its normal functions; if pain makes it difficult to obtain sufficient, restful sleep, then the body will find it more difficult to cope with discomfort and fatigue. Research indicates that a lack or disruption of sleep can lead to an increased sensitivity to pain. On the other hand, chronic pain can make it hard to settle into a comfortable sleeping position or to stay asleep all night long. Thus, a cycle is formed in which pain disrupts sleep while poor sleep in turn makes the pain more difficult to control. People experiencing chronic pain may have symptoms such as: • Difficulty falling asleep • Frequent nighttime awakenings • Daytime fatigue or tiredness • Increased sensitivity to pain • Difficulty concentrating • Changes in mood or general well-being Understanding the link between sleep and chronic pain can be an important element of overall pain management. Which Kinds of Pain Can Have an Effect on Sleeping? There are many kinds of chronic pain which can make it difficult for a person to sleep comfortably. Back pain caused by arthritis, nerve pain and musculoskeletal pain can make it hard to discover a comfortable position at night, and some patients have pain that becomes more apparent when they are resting or lying down. Since there are many possible causes of both pain and sleep problems, it is important to have a thorough evaluation. Your doctor will look at your symptoms, medical history, the treatments you are currently receiving, and your sleep concerns in order to get a better understanding of how these various factors may be related. How Can Better Sleep Help with Pain Management? One way to manage chronic pain is to improve sleep. By setting regular sleep routines, making sure your sleeping environment is comfortable, and talking with your healthcare professional about ongoing sleep problems, you may be able to get better rest. It is also important to treat the underlying pain condition if the pain is affecting your sleep. Your doctor may suggest conservative treatments, medication, physical therapy, interventional procedures, or other pain management methods depending on your circumstances.  Personalized Pain Management at Pain Treatment Centers of America We at Pain Treatment Centers of America know chronic pain affects each patient differently, and our experienced doctors take an all-encompassing approach when assessing pain, considering symptoms, medical history, daily activities, and treatment goals. If finding it hard to get restful sleep is due to chronic pain, a tailored pain management assessment might assist in identifying suitable treatment options. You should schedule a consultation with Pain Treatment Centers of America to discuss your symptoms and learn more about strategies to control chronic pain and support your overall well-being

Spinal Cord Stimulation: Who Is a Candidate and What to Expect

August 28, 2026
Chronic pain can impact many areas of daily life, particularly when it continues despite medications, physical therapy, or other conservative treatments. For some, spinal cord stimulation (SCS) may provide an alternative for managing ongoing pain and enhancing function. At Pain Treatment Centers of America, we study each patient’s well-being, medical history, and treatment goals to determine if SCS is suitable as part of a personalized pain management plan. What Is Spinal Cord Stimulation? This pain management treatment uses a small, implanted device to deliver mild electrical signals near the spinal cord. These signals can change how pain messages get to the brain, which may reduce chronic pain intensity. SCS is most commonly considered for certain types of chronic pain. SCS is typically considered for chronic nerve-related pain, such as pain that persists after surgery or does not respond to other treatments. It is not intended for all types of pain, and eligibility is based on individual factors. Stimulation may be considered for adults experiencing chronic pain that has not improved sufficiently with more conservative treatments. Candidates may have conditions such as: Chronic back or leg pain Nerve pain or neuropathy Persistent pain following spinal surgery Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) Specific types of chronic pain which have not reacted based on other treatments A thorough evaluation is essential before considering SCS. Your provider will review your symptoms, prior treatments, imaging, medical history, and overall health. A psychological evaluation may also be recommended to determine if an implanted device is appropriate. What Happens Before Spinal Cord Stimulation? For most patients, SCS starts with a trial period instead of immediate permanent implantation. During the trial, providers place temporary leads near the spinal cord and connect them to an external generator. This helps patients and providers assess whether stimulation delivers considerable pain relief and enhanced function. The trial lets patients experience the effects of spinal cord stimulation before deciding on permanent implantation. What to Expect During Permanent Implantation If the trial is successful, you may proceed with a permanent SCS system. Leads are placed near the spinal cord, and the pulse generator is positioned under the skin. The system is programmed to deliver stimulation based on your needs. As with any medical procedure, the stimulation involves possible risks and may not be appropriate for everyone. Your provider will review the benefits, risks, alternatives, and expected recovery before treatment. Personalized Pain Management at Pain Treatment Centers of America At Pain Treatment Centers of America, we recognize that chronic pain has many causes and affects each patient differently. Our experienced providers use a complete approach to diagnosis and treatment, considering your symptoms and goals.  If you have serious back, nerve, or persistent pain despite other treatments, spinal cord stimulation may be an option to consider. Schedule a consultation with Pain Treatment Centers of America to see whether you are a candidate for SCS and to discuss appropriate treatment options.

How Poor Posture Contributes to Chronic Pain (and How to Fix It)

July 31, 2026
Many people spend hours each day sitting at a desk, looking down at a phone, or driving between appointments without realizing how these habits affect their bodies. Over time, poor posture places excessive stress on muscles, joints, and the spine, leading to chronic pain that interferes with daily life. At Pain Treatment Centers of America, we help patients identify the causes of persistent pain and develop bespoke treatment plans that improve function, mobility, and well-being. How Poor Posture Leads to Chronic Pain Proper posture keeps your body aligned, allowing muscles, ligaments, and joints to work efficiently. When posture is compromised—whether from slouching, hunching over a computer, or standing unevenly—certain muscles become overworked while others weaken. Such imbalance places unnecessary strain on the spine and surrounding tissues. Over time, poor posture leads to chronic pain in several areas of the body, including: Neck and shoulders Upper and lower back Hips and pelvis Knees Head, leading to tension headaches Many people don’t notice the effects immediately, but repeated poor posture can gradually cause inflammation, muscle fatigue, nerve irritation, and reduced flexibility. Common Signs Your Posture May Be Causing Pain Poor posture often develops slowly, making it hard to recognize until discomfort becomes persistent. Typical symptoms include: Frequent neck or shoulder stiffness Ongoing lower back pain Muscle tightness after sitting for long periods Headaches which start at the base of the skull Rounded shoulders or a forward head position Fatigue from standing or sitting throughout the day If these symptoms continue despite rest or over-the-counter treatments, it may be time for a medical assessment. Simple Ways to Improve Your Posture Improving posture doesn’t happen overnight, but small daily changes can greatly reduce pain and prevent future problems. Consider these healthy habits: Sit with both feet flat on the floor and your back supported. Keep computer monitors at eye level to reduce neck strain. Take regular breaks to move your body throughout the day. Strengthen muscles in your core to better support your spine. Practice posture awareness while standing, walking, and lifting objects. Try not to look down at your phone for longer periods of time by raising the screen closer to eye level. These simple adjustments can reduce stress on your body and improve comfort during daily activities. When Professional Treatment Is Needed While posture correction helps many people, chronic pain may require additional medical care, especially if poor posture has caused joint dysfunction, nerve irritation, or long-term muscle imbalances. A complete evaluation can determine whether posture is causing your symptoms and identify other underlying conditions that may be involved. Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may include: Physical therapy and guided rehabilitation Interventional pain management procedures Trigger point or joint injections Medication management when appropriate Personalized exercise recommendations Education on body mechanics and ergonomics Combining posture correction with targeted treatment often provides the greatest long-term relief. Personalized Chronic Pain Care at Pain Treatment Centers of America At Pain Treatment Centers of America, we understand chronic pain is rarely caused by a single factor. Our experienced providers evaluate the whole person to identify the root cause of discomfort and create individualized treatment plans that support lasting relief. Whether your pain stems from poor posture, repetitive strain, or another underlying condition, we’re committed to helping you improve mobility, restore function, and return to the activities you enjoy.  If chronic neck, back, or shoulder pain is impacting your quality of life, schedule a consultation with Pain Treatment Centers of America today. Together, let’s customize a treatment plan that helps you stand taller, move more comfortably, and live with less pain.

When Pain Isn’t Structural: Understanding Neuropathic Pain

June 26, 2026
Pain is often associated with injury, arthritis, or another structural problem in the body. However, not all pain comes from damaged bones, joints, muscles, or tissues. Sometimes, the nervous system itself causes discomfort. This pain is called neuropathic pain and can greatly affect quality of life. At Pain Treatment Centers of America, we help patients determine the source of their symptoms and develop personalized plans to manage chronic nerve pain effectively. What Is Neuropathic Pain? Neuropathic pain happens when nerves are damaged, irritated, or dysfunctional. Unlike pain from injury or inflammation, it results from abnormal signaling within the nervous system. These disrupted signals cause the brain to sense pain even without ongoing tissue damage. Patients commonly describe neuropathic pain as burning, tingling, shooting, electric-like, or stabbing. Some may experience numbness, elevated sensitivity to touch, or pain that seems disproportionate to any physical findings. Common Causes of Neuropathic Pain Neuropathic pain can develop from a variety of conditions that affect the nerves or nervous system. Some common causes include: Diabetes-related nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy) Herniated discs are causing nerve compression Shingles and postherpetic neuralgia Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) Multiple sclerosis Spinal cord injuries Stroke-related nerve damage Chemotherapy-induced neuropathy Symptoms can vary widely, so proper evaluation is key for accurate diagnosis and efficient treatment. Neuropathic pain is often challenging to identify because imaging exams like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may not always reveal the source of the problem. Patients may experience significant pain despite having slight structural abnormalities. A complete evaluation includes medical history, physical exam, neurological assessment, and diagnostic tests when needed. Identifying nerve involvement is critical because neuropathic pain often responds differently to treatment than musculoskeletal pain. Treatment Options for Neuropathic Pain Successful treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause when possible while reducing symptoms and improving function. Depending on the patient’s condition, treatment options may include: Medication management designed specifically for nerve pain Nerve block injections Physical therapy and rehabilitation Spinal cord stimulation Lifestyle alterations Interventional pain management procedures Many benefit from an approach that combines several therapies for the best outcomes. When to Seek Professional Care Persistent burning, tingling, numbness, or shooting pain should not be ignored. Early diagnosis and treatment prevent worsening symptoms and improve long-term outcomes. If you have ongoing pain not connected to a structural injury, it may be time to explore if neuropathic pain is the cause. An extensive evaluation can determine the source of your symptoms and identify the most effective treatments. Personalized Neuropathic Pain Treatment at Pain Treatment Centers of America At Pain Treatment Centers of America, we understand that chronic pain is complex and every patient’s experience is unique. Our team uses sophisticated diagnostic tools and evidence-based treatments to identify nerve-related pain and create individualized care plans to improve comfort, mobility, and quality of life. If you are experiencing persistent nerve pain symptoms, schedule a consultation with Pain Treatment Centers of America today. Together, we can develop a treatment plan designed to help you regain control of your daily activities and move toward lasting relief.
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