Hip pain: causes, symptoms and treatment
A clinically reviewed guide to hip pain — where it comes from, when to seek help, and how it is managed.
Medically reviewed by D.C Matt · Lead Director
Last reviewed 1 July 2026
- Pain on the outer hip is often tendon-related (gluteal tendinopathy).
- Pain in the groin more often points to the hip joint itself.
- Strengthening the hip and pelvis muscles is central to recovery.
What causes hip pain?
Hip pain is most often caused by tendon problems around the hip, osteoarthritis, or referred pain from the lower back.
- Gluteal tendinopathy or bursitis (outer hip)
- Hip osteoarthritis (often groin pain and stiffness)
- Referred pain from the lower back
- Muscle strains, including in athletes
What are the symptoms of hip pain?
Symptoms vary by cause but commonly include groin or outer-hip pain, stiffness, and pain with walking, stairs or lying on the side.
- Pain in the groin, outer hip or buttock
- Stiffness, especially after rest
- Pain with walking, stairs or prolonged sitting
- Pain lying on the affected side at night
How is hip pain treated?
Most hip pain is treated with targeted strengthening, load management and manual therapy, matched to the cause.
For tendon problems, progressive loading is key; for osteoarthritis, exercise and activity pacing are first-line. Referral is considered for severe or non-improving joint pain.
The Postura approach
At Postura Wellness, care for hip pain is built around OrthoRestore™ — our signature method that combines chiropractic and physiotherapy into one coordinated plan. Depending on your assessment, it can bring together chiropractic adjustments, dry needling, muscle manipulation, Active Release Technique, and targeted exercises, supported where helpful by technology such as shockwave therapy and bioelectric therapy. The aim is to relieve symptoms while addressing the underlying causes, with a plan tailored to you.
When to seek urgent care
Seek prompt care for hip pain after a fall or that prevents weight-bearing, or hip pain with fever, which needs urgent assessment.
Sciatica FAQs
Is my hip pain coming from my back?
It can be. Lower-back and nerve problems often refer pain to the hip and buttock. An assessment can identify the true source.
Does hip osteoarthritis always need surgery?
No. Many people manage hip osteoarthritis well with exercise, weight management and activity pacing. Surgery is considered only for advanced cases.
Can physiotherapy help hip pain?
Yes. A structured strengthening and manual therapy programme is first-line for most hip pain.
Why does my hip hurt at night?
Lying on the side compresses the outer-hip tendons, which is a common cause of night pain in gluteal tendinopathy.
This guide is informed by patient information from accredited medical institutions:
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