Hip pain
The hip is a deep ball-and-socket joint, so pain can be felt in the groin, the side of the hip, the buttock or even the thigh and knee. Finding where the pain really comes from needs a careful examination.
Common symptoms
- Pain in the groin, outer hip or buttock
- Pain or stiffness when putting on socks and shoes
- Limping or difficulty walking longer distances
- Pain when lying on the affected side at night
- Reduced range of movement of the hip
Common causes
- Wear of the hip joint (osteoarthritis)
- Inflammation of tendons or bursae around the hip
- Injury, including falls and fractures
- Reduced blood supply to the hip bone
- Pain referred from the lower back
When to see an orthopaedic doctor
- Hip or groin pain lasting more than a couple of weeks
- A limp or a feeling that the leg is weak or shorter
- Pain that wakes you at night
- Difficulty with stairs, sitting cross-legged or getting in and out of a vehicle
Seek urgent care if you have
- Sudden severe hip pain after a fall, especially in an older person
- Inability to stand or walk on the leg
- The leg looks shortened or turned outwards
- Hip pain together with fever or a hot, swollen joint
Go to the nearest emergency department. Do not wait for a clinic appointment.
What to expect at your consultation
- 01
Tell us your concern
Describe when it began, what makes it better or worse, and how it affects your day.
- 02
Examination
The doctor checks movement, strength, swelling and tenderness of the affected area.
- 03
Tests, only if needed
X-rays or other tests are suggested only when they will help decide the next step.
- 04
Discuss the plan
You will hear the likely cause, the options available and what to expect next.
Common questions
Can back problems cause hip pain?
Yes. Problems in the lower back can cause pain that is felt in the hip or buttock. The doctor will examine both the hip and the spine to find the source.
Is a limp always serious?
Not always, but a limp that lasts more than a few days has a cause that should be checked, particularly in children and older adults.
This page is general health information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an examination by a doctor. Treatment depends on your individual situation.
Other guides
All conditionsKnee pain
Pain, swelling or stiffness around the knee, with or without a recent injury.
Read the guideBack pain
Pain in the lower or upper back, sometimes spreading into the leg.
Read the guideNeck pain
Neck stiffness or pain, sometimes with pain or tingling in the shoulder and arm.
Read the guideShoulder pain
Pain or stiffness in the shoulder that limits lifting, reaching or sleeping.
Read the guide