Hip Pain — Common Causes in Adults

"My Hip Hurts"—But Where Exactly?

Groin pain (anterior)—suggests an intra-articular problem: hip osteoarthritis, avascular necrosis, or femoroacetabular impingement.

Lateral pain (over the greater trochanter)—suggests trochanteric bursitis or gluteal tendinopathy.

Posterior pain (in the buttock)—could be piriformis syndrome or lumbar radiculopathy.

Groin pain that radiates to the knee—classic for hip osteoarthritis.

Common Causes

Hip osteoarthritis—the most common cause in adults over 50. → The Complete Guide to Hip Osteoarthritis

Trochanteric bursitis—a common cause of lateral pain. Often resolves without surgery.

Avascular necrosis of the femoral head—loss of blood supply. Advanced stages require a hip replacement. → Hip Replacement

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI)—an abnormal anatomical configuration, common in active young people.

Stress fracture—common in runners. Requires an MRI.

Referred pain from the lumbar spine—a herniated disc can mimic a hip problem.

Conversely, back pain can actually come from the hip — a common confusion, clarified by a clinical examination and an X-ray.

When to See an Orthopedic Surgeon

• Pain that persists for more than 2-3 weeks
• Pain that limits walking or daily activities
• A progressive limp
• Night pain
• Significant stiffness
• Sudden, severe pain after a fall (emergency)

For context, see the dedicated page on hip replacement, and if you want to go deeper, read aboutthe complete guide to hip osteoarthritis and abouthow to tell hip pain from spine pain.

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