Hip pain can range from a mild nuisance to a debilitating ache—and because the hip is a complex joint connected to your spine, pelvis, and legs, pain can originate from the hip itself or be “referred” from nearby structures. Understanding the likely cause helps you respond wisely.

Pain on the Outside of the Hip

Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS)

  • What it is: Inflammation of the tendons or bursa on the outer side of the hip
  • Symptoms: Aching or sharp pain on the outside of the hip; worse when lying on that side, climbing stairs, or standing up from a chair
  • Who gets it: Women, middle-aged adults, runners, and people with IT band tightness

  • What helps: Physical therapy, stretching, ice, anti-inflammatory medications

  • IT Band Syndrome
  • What it is: Tightness of the iliotibial band (a thick band of tissue running from hip to knee)

  • Symptoms: Pain on the outer hip and knee, especially during running or walking

  • What helps: Stretching, foam rolling, strengthening gluteal muscles

  • Pain in the Front of the Hip (Groin Area)
  • Osteoarthritis
  • What it is: Wear-and-tear of the cartilage in the hip joint
  • Symptoms: Gradual onset of deep, aching pain in the groin or front of the thigh; stiffness in the morning; pain worsens with activity
  • Who gets it: Adults over 50; people with family history or previous hip injury

  • What helps: Weight management, physical therapy, pain management, joint replacement if severe

  • Hip Labral Tear
  • What it is: Tear in the cartilage ring that seals the hip socket
  • Symptoms: Sharp catching or clicking sensation in the groin; stiffness; feeling that the hip is “locking”
  • Who gets it: Athletes (especially soccer, hockey, golf), people with hip impingement

  • What helps: Physical therapy, activity modification, sometimes surgery

  • Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)
  • What it is: Bony overgrowth causing abnormal contact between the ball and socket