Hip Pain: How It Feels, Which Movements Make It Worse, and Why It Happens

Hip pain is a common complaint that can significantly affect daily life. Walking, sitting, standing up, climbing stairs, or even lying on the affected side may become difficult. In some patients, hip pain starts suddenly, while in others it develops gradually and worsens over time.

How Do Patients Describe Hip Pain?

Hip pain does not feel the same in every patient. Common descriptions include:

• Deep pain in the groin area
• Sharp or aching pain on the outer side of the hip
• Pain radiating from the buttock toward the thigh or leg
• Stiffness and pain when standing up after sitting
• Pain during the first few steps when walking
• Difficulty sleeping on the affected side

The location and character of the pain provide important clues about the underlying cause.

Which Movements Make Hip Pain Worse?

• Climbing or descending stairs
• Getting in and out of a car
• Putting on shoes or socks
• Squatting or bending down
• Long-distance walking
• Rotating the hip inward or outward

Why Is Physical Examination Important?

A detailed physical examination is essential in evaluating hip pain. Range of motion, muscle strength, walking pattern, and pain during specific maneuvers help determine whether the pain originates from the hip joint itself, the surrounding muscles and tendons, or even the lower back.

Common Causes of Hip Pain

Hip pain can arise from different structures around the hip. Below are some of the most common and important causes:

• The Most Common Cause of Lateral Hip Pain: Trochanteric Bursitis
• What is Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)? The Silent Cause of Hip Pain
• Piriformis Syndrome
• Hip Osteonecrosis
• Transient Osteoporosis of the Hip

When Is Hip Replacement Surgery Necessary?

Hip replacement surgery is considered when the hip joint is severely damaged, pain significantly limits daily activities, and non-surgical treatments no longer provide relief.

• Hip Replacement Surgery
• Life After Hip Replacement: When Can You Walk and Exercise?
• Recovery After Hip Replacement Surgery: What to Expect and Key Precautions

Conclusion

Hip pain should never be ignored. It may be caused by a simple muscle problem or be an early sign of progressive joint disease. Early evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and proper treatment can prevent long-term damage and significantly improve quality of life. If your hip pain persists, worsens, or limits your daily activities, a specialist assessment is strongly recommended.