Hip Pain: Symptoms, Causes and When to Seek Help
Educational guide to hip pain — symptoms, common causes and warning signs. Aculaser Institute in Parklands, Nairobi.
Overview
Hip Pain: Symptoms, Causes and When to Seek Help
The hip is a deep ball-and-socket joint that supports body weight and allows a wide range of movement. Hip pain can affect walking, sitting and sleep, and is a common concern in older adults and in people with active lifestyles.
What is hip pain?
Hip pain describes discomfort in or around the hip joint. True hip joint pain is usually felt in the groin, while pain over the outer thigh, buttock or lower back may come from other nearby structures. Careful assessment is important because the hip can also refer pain to the knee.
Common symptoms
Symptoms may include groin or outer hip pain, stiffness after sitting, difficulty putting on socks and shoes, a limp, or pain that wakes you when lying on the affected side. Symptoms can vary from person to person and may develop suddenly or slowly over months.
Common causes and risk factors
Common causes include osteoarthritis of the hip, tendinopathy of the muscles around the hip, bursitis over the outer hip, labral (cartilage rim) problems, and referred pain from the lower back. Risk factors can include increasing age, previous injury, being overweight and certain childhood hip conditions.
When should someone seek medical advice?
Seek medical advice if hip pain is severe, persistent, limiting walking, or associated with a fall. Urgent assessment is appropriate for inability to bear weight, a suddenly deformed leg, fever with a hot swollen joint, or sudden numbness or weakness in the leg.
If you are experiencing symptoms of this condition and are looking for professional healthcare in Nairobi, the team at Aculaser Institute in Parklands is available to assess your concerns and discuss appropriate management options. Contact us today to book an appointment or learn more about our services.
Frequently asked questions
Answers about hip pain: symptoms, causes and when to seek help
Can hip pain come from the back?
Yes. Nerve irritation in the lower back can produce pain that is felt in the hip or buttock region.
Should I keep walking?
Gentle activity is usually helpful, but the amount and type should be adjusted if it clearly worsens symptoms.
Does hip pain always mean arthritis?
No. Many other structures around the hip can cause pain, at any age.
Next step
Begin with a confidential consultation.
Call our reception to book — walk-ins welcome during clinic hours, Monday to Saturday, 8am to 5pm.
Reception · 020-3744883 · 020-3744885 · 020-3741179