Nobody enjoys having to cope with hip pain, especially if it persists for longer than three months. And pain lasting more than three months is considered chronic hip pain in adults. This chronic pain may vary from minor pains to sharp, piercing feelings. But what causes hip pain? Learn the actual causes of chronic hip pain in adults and how to deal with it. What Can Cause Hip Pain in Adults? Hip pain can be attributed to various factors such as age, severity level, and activity level. Some of the causes include: Bursitis (a fluid-filled sac cushioning the hip bone), can cause sudden hip pain without injury or pain while moving the joint due to irritation or overuse. Arthritis, especially osteoarthritis, which degrades the ball-and-socket joint, is a frequent cause of chronic hip pain. Endometriosis, a disorder where tissue resembling the uterine lining develops outside the uterus, may cause pelvic soreness and back/spine pain in the buttocks and hip. Back and gynecological issues can also contribute to hip pain in women. For elderly women with osteoporosis, hip fractures are common and may cause pain while standing, lifting, or straightening the leg. Sciatica, a pinched nerve, causes hip pain from the lower back to the buttocks and les. Tendinitis and bursitis, including iliotibial band syndrome, are major causes of hip pain in women. Hernias (or sports hernias) occur when the abdominal wall weakens and protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall, causing discomfort in the anterior hip, particularly in pregnant women. A proper diagnosis for chronic hip pain requires a thorough physical examination, detailed medical history, imaging tests, and blood tests, especially for conditions like RA. Chronic Hip Pain Treatment How to relieve hip pain? Living with chronic hip pain requires lifestyle adjustments, such as activity modification, assistive devices, and a supportive group. For chronic pain, Dr. Aashish Arbat, a renowned Hip Replacement Doctor in Pune, may advise the following treatment plans for relieving hip pain: Medication, such as NSAIDs and bisphosphonates or Topical analgesics (in the form of gels, patches, or creams to apply to affected pain area) to reduce hip pain. Physiotherapist-recommended exercises and stretches to strengthen hip muscles, enhance flexibility, and improve posture. Occupational therapy to help regain mobility and function. Other treatment plan such as acupuncture, aromatherapy, chiropractic, osteopathy, and supplements may relieve hip pain. For severe or persistent hip pain, injections like corticosteroids (directly into the hip joint) to decrease inflammation and relieve pain. In some cases, hip replacement surgery or revision surgery (for loose, infected, or failing hip replacements) may be recommended. Some other preventive measures to relieve chronic hip pain in adults: Self-care for hip pain includes rest, painkillers, and hot/cold therapy. Changing lifestyle such as avoiding aggravating activities, and weight management (lose weight if overweight). Sleeping on the non-painful side with a cushion between the knees. Making ergonomic workplace like avoiding low chair positions or carrying heavy weights, establishing suitable sitting postures at work, & using a walking stick (if necessary). Avoiding standing on one leg while entering a vehicle to minimize strain Conclusion Chronic hip pain in adults needs immediate treatment. Correct diagnosis and prompt treatment can manage and treat it. Therefore, prioritize health, listen to your body, and seek expert guidance from Dr. Aashish Arbat, a Hip Replacement Surgeon in Pune, to lead a pain-free, healthy future. FAQ What causes hip pain that radiates down the leg? Lower back nerve root irritation may cause sciatica, which transmits pain from the hip to the leg. Where does hip pain commonly occur? Hip pain may not be felt immediately over the hip. However, the common hip pain location is in the groin, thigh, or knee. What can cause hip pain in a woman or a man? Anatomical differences, hormonal, or reproductive health issues may cause hip pain in women alone. What causes female hip pain on the right or left side? Pain in left hip area female can be caused by hip fracture, referred pain, bursitis, osteoarthritis, tendinitis, sciatic nerve compression, muscle strain, or hip labral tear, while pain in right hip area female can result from similar conditions. What is the fastest way to relieve hip pain? Heat and cold therapy may help decrease inflammation, increase circulation, relax muscles, and relieve hip pain temporarily. Dr. Aashish Arbat – The Best Hip Replacement Surgeon in Pune Dr. Aashish Arbat is an internationally recognized Joint Replacement Surgeon in Pune, known for treating over 5000+ patients using advanced techniques. He is the first 3D AI-based robotic joint replacement surgeon in Western India. Dr. Arbat has also been involved in devising a patient information system for the Government of Scotland. If hip pain lasts longer than a few months, consult an orthopedic expert Dr. Aashish Arbat. Remember that prolonged hip pain (chronic hip pain in adults)—lasting months—may indicate a more severe condition that requires immediate treatment. Ignoring or self-diagnosing chronic pain is never a good idea. Reference https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21118-hip-pain https://www.everydayhealth.com/hip-pain/five-common-causes-of-hip-pain-in-women.aspx#:~:text=Among%20the%20most%20common%20causes,wear%20out%2C%E2%80%9D%20Siegrist%20says. https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/hip-pain/basics/when-to-see-doctor/sym-20050684 https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/pain-in-right-hip-area-in-females
