There are many conditions that can lead to hip pain. Some hip pain is acute and results from trauma and accidents, while in other instances hip pain results from chronic “wear and tear.” The hip joint is well designed as your body’s largest “ball & joint socket,” and structured to withstand ongoing repetitive motion and a fair amount of wear and tear. The hip joint has a cushion of cartilage that prevents friction and aids in “shock absorption” as the hip bone moves in the socket. Damage to the cartilage can occur from trauma including falls and blunt force or can be the result of 'wear and tear' over time. There are several muscles and tendons that aid in mobility and stability of the hip joint. These muscles and tendons can get overused, strained or damaged which can result in tendonitis and pain.
The typical symptom of hip pain is pain in the groin radiating to the anterior thigh with weight bearing. Pain may be located in the buttock or over the hip on the outside of the thigh as well. Flexing the hip as when lifting your knee to climb stairs, get in and out of the car, tub, or shower can cause pain. Along with the pain, you might have a reduced range of motion and even develop a limp.
