Hip pain is a common concern among adults that can significantly affect quality of life, mobility, and independence. Whether it's a dull ache, sharp stabbing sensation, or persistent discomfort, hip pain can be triggered by various conditions ranging from minor injuries to chronic disorders. Understanding the primary causes behind hip pain is important for early diagnosis and effective treatment. At Safejoint, our team of expert orthopaedic surgeons and experienced orthopedic doctors is dedicated to diagnosing and treating hip-related problems to help patients return to pain-free living.

In this blog, we explore the most common causes of hip pain in adults and explain when to seek help from an orthopedic doctor in Kanpur or the best orthopedic doctor in Kanpur.

1. Osteoarthritis of the Hip

Osteoarthritis is one of the most frequent causes of hip pain, especially in older adults. It occurs when the cartilage that acts as a cushion in the joints gradually wears down, leading to inflammation, stiffness, and pain.

Symptoms:

• Hip joint pain during or after performing any physical activity

• Stiffness, especially in the morning

• Decreased range of motion

• Clicking or popping sound in the joint
   

Early intervention with medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes can help slow the progression. In severe cases, surgical options such as hip replacement may be recommended by orthopaedic surgeons.

2. Hip Bursitis

Bursitis occurs when the bursae—fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones and soft tissues—become inflamed. This condition is generally caused by repetitive motion or excessive pressure on the hip.

Symptoms:

• Extreme pain on the outer part of the hip

• Pain that worsens with prolonged walking, climbing stairs, or lying on the affected side

• Tenderness around the hip joint
   

The good news is that hip bursitis is usually treatable with rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. A consultation with an orthopedic doctor can help confirm the diagnosis and suggest the best course of treatment.

3. Tendinitis and Muscle Strains

Tendinitis refers to the inflammation of the tendons, it connects our muscles to bones. This condition is often the result of overuse, especially among athletes or individuals who engage in repetitive activities like running or cycling.

Symptoms:

• Pain and tenderness in your hip or groin

• Swelling or warmth around the joint

• Limited mobility or stiffness
   

Muscle strains in the hip region can produce similar symptoms. Both conditions typically respond well to conservative treatment, including rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E), along with physical rehabilitation.

4. Hip Fractures

Hip fractures are serious injuries, most commonly seen in elderly individuals due to falls or in younger adults from high-impact accidents. These fractures require immediate attention from orthopaedic surgeons.

Symptoms:

• Sudden, severe hip or groin pain

• Inability to put weight on the leg

• Leg appearing shorter or turned outward
   

Hip fractures are medical emergencies that may require surgical intervention and extensive rehabilitation. If you or a loved one experiences these symptoms, seek immediate care from the best orthopedic doctor in Kanpur.

5. Labral Tear

The labrum is a ring of cartilage that protects our hips by surrounds the hip joint socket. A labral tear can occur due to any kind of trauma, repetitive motion, or structural abnormalities.

Symptoms:

• Extreme groin pain or pain in the back

• Clicking, locking, or catching feeling in the hip

• Stiffness or limited range of motion
   

A labral tear may not always be visible on X-rays and often requires advanced imaging like an MRI. Treatment options range from physical therapy to arthroscopic surgery, depending on the severity.

6. Hip Impingement (FAI - Femoroacetabular Impingement)

Hip impingement is a condition where extra bone grows along one or both of the bones that form the hip joint, causing rubbing against each other during movement.

Symptoms:

• Groin pain during activity

• Difficulty with prolonged sitting or walking

• Decreased hip motion
   

This condition can cause labral tears and osteoarthritis if left untreated. Early consultation with an orthopedic doctor in Kanpur can help prevent long-term damage.

7. Sciatica and Referred Pain

Sometimes, hip pain isn’t caused by a complication within your hip joint itself. Sciatica, a condition caused by compression of the sciatic nerve, can produce pain that radiates from the lower back to the hip and leg.

Symptoms:

• Shooting pain in the hip, buttocks, or leg

• Numbness or tingling

• Muscle weakness
   

Referred pain from lumbar spine issues like a herniated disc or spinal stenosis can mimic hip joint problems. Accurate diagnosis by the best orthopedic doctor in Kanpur is essential for effective treatment.

8. Avascular Necrosis (Osteonecrosis)

Avascular necrosis is a condition in which the blood supply to the hip bone is disrupted, leading to the death of bone tissue and joint collapse if left untreated.

Causes:

• Long-term steroid use

• Alcohol abuse

• Trauma or injury

• Certain medical conditions
   

Early stages may be asymptomatic, but as the condition progresses, it leads to severe pain and limited mobility. Timely diagnosis can help preserve the joint and delay or avoid surgery.

9. Inflammatory Conditions (Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus)

Autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus can cause chronic inflammation of the joints, including the hips. Unlike osteoarthritis, these conditions can affect people of any age group at any age.

Symptoms:

• Persistent joint pain and swelling

• Morning stiffness in your body that lasts for more than 30 minutes

• Fatigue and general malaise
   

Treatment typically involves immunosuppressants and disease-modifying drugs, guided by a multidisciplinary team including orthopaedic surgeons.

When to See an Orthopedic Doctor

You should consult an orthopedic doctor in Kanpur if:

• Your hip pain remains beyond a few days

• You feel swelling, redness, or warmth in the joint

• You’re unable to bear weight on the leg

• Pain interferes with daily activities or sleep

• You’ve suffered a fall or trauma
   

At Safejoint, our team of highly qualified orthopaedic surgeons and the best orthopedic doctors in Kanpur are equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and treatment modalities to manage all forms of hip pain, from conservative care to advanced invasive treatments.

Final Thoughts

Hip pain can be more than just a minor inconvenience—it can signal a deeper health issue that needs medical attention. Identifying the root cause is the first step toward recovery. Whether it’s arthritis, bursitis, a fracture, or nerve-related pain, early diagnosis and personalized treatment can make a world of difference.

If you're dealing with persistent or worsening hip discomfort, don’t wait. Consult the best orthopedic doctor in Kanpur at Safejoint and take the first step toward a pain-free life.