What it is
Hip pain is a symptom, not a single condition. The hip is a ball-and-socket joint surrounded by cartilage, muscles, tendons, bursae (small fluid-filled cushions), and ligaments. Discomfort can come from any of these structures.
Commonly discussed hip pain causes include arthritis, which involves wear or inflammation in the joint; bursitis and tendon irritation; muscle or tendon strains; labral tears in the rim of cartilage around the socket; and fractures or stress injuries. Pain felt in the hip can sometimes begin elsewhere, such as the lower back or the groin area.
Where you feel the pain can offer clues, but not answers. Pain on the outer side, in the groin, or in the buttock may be linked to different structures. Only a licensed clinician can evaluate what is going on in your own case.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Hip concerns have traditionally been approached by first understanding the story: when the pain started, what makes it better or worse, and how it affects daily activities. A physical exam and, when a clinician feels it is useful, imaging such as X-rays or MRI are commonly part of that process.
Many people are first guided toward conservative, non-surgical options. These have commonly included activity changes, physical therapy, and over-the-counter or prescribed medicines, as decided by a clinician. What is appropriate varies widely from person to person.
When symptoms are more persistent or structural, some people discuss injections or surgery with a specialist. Hip replacement and arthroscopy are examples of procedures that exist. Whether any of them fits a particular person is a decision for a licensed clinician after an evaluation.
How the right orthopedic doctor may help
The right orthopedic doctor may help by listening carefully, examining your hip and movement, and explaining what they think may be contributing to your pain. Some practices focus on sports medicine, others on hip and knee replacement, so it can help to look for one whose focus matches your situation.
A visit generally includes questions about your history, a hands-on exam, and possibly imaging. Bring a list of symptoms, past injuries, medicines, and what you've already tried. Outcomes and timelines vary, and no provider can promise a specific result.
Good questions to ask include: What do you think may be causing my pain? What are all my options, including non-surgical ones? What are the benefits, risks, and unknowns of each? If surgery is raised, ask about a second opinion. If injections are mentioned, ask whether they are FDA-approved for that use and whether insurance covers them.
The whole-person view
Body, mind, and stress influence one another. Ongoing pain can affect sleep, mood, and activity, and stress or tension can make the body feel more sensitive to discomfort. Looking at the whole person is a reasonable complement to a medical evaluation, not a replacement for it.
Some people explore body-based support such as Somatic Experiences to build awareness of tension and stress held in the body. Others find talk therapy through Therapists.plus helpful for coping with the worry or frustration that can come with chronic pain. These are optional supports that can sit alongside medical care.
Somatic Experiences: embodiment and movement →Therapists.plus: mind body connection →
Keep in mind
- This page is educational only and is not medical advice or a diagnosis; a licensed professional should guide your care.
- Call 911 for emergencies, such as hip pain after a serious fall or injury, inability to bear weight, visible deformity, or sudden severe pain with fever or swelling.
- Many biologic or 'regenerative' injections (such as PRP, stem cell, amniotic, umbilical, or exosome products) are not FDA-approved for orthopedic uses, and insurance often does not cover them.
- Consider a second opinion before major surgery, and if you are feeling overwhelmed by pain, you can call or text 988 at any time.
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Frequently asked questions
What are the most common hip pain causes?
Common hip pain causes include arthritis, bursitis, tendon irritation, muscle strains, labral tears, and injuries or fractures. Pain can also be referred from the lower back or groin area. A licensed clinician can evaluate which may apply to you.
Where you feel hip pain, what does it mean?
The location can offer clues but is not a diagnosis. Groin pain, outer-hip pain, and buttock pain may be associated with different structures. A clinician's exam is needed to understand what is happening in your case.
When should I see an orthopedic doctor for hip pain?
Many people consider seeing an orthopedic doctor when hip pain lasts, limits daily activities, or keeps coming back. Seek emergency care right away after a serious fall or if you cannot bear weight. A provider can help you decide what makes sense for you.
How do I find an orthopedic doctor near me for hip pain?
You can start by looking for an orthopedic doctor near me who focuses on hips, such as a sports medicine or hip and knee replacement specialist. Check licensing, ask about their experience with your type of concern, and consider your insurance. A directory like this can help you explore options.
Are injections like PRP or stem cells approved for hip pain?
Many biologic or 'regenerative' injections, including PRP, stem cell, amniotic, umbilical, and exosome products, are not FDA-approved for orthopedic uses. Insurance often does not cover them. Ask a provider about the regulatory status, risks, and costs before deciding.
Should I get a second opinion before hip surgery?
Yes, a second opinion is widely encouraged before major surgery. Another orthopedic doctor may review your imaging and history and share their perspective. It can help you feel more confident about your choices.
Educational resource. Best Orthopedic Doctors shares general information and connects people with independent orthopedic doctors. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health.