This article was created with AI technology for the purposes of educating readers living in remote communities without convenient access to a physician or a physical therapist. The content of this article was reviewed before publication, by Canadian Orthopaedic Physiotherapist Terry Kane
The content in this article is not a substitute for seeing a licensed physician and readers are encouraged to see a physician or physical therapist as soon as possible if they experience increased pain.
The hip is one of the largest and strongest joints in the body. It connects the legs to the pelvis and helps people walk, run, jump, sit, and stand. The hip joint supports much of the body’s weight and allows movement in many directions. Because the hips are used every day, they can become injured from sports, falls, overuse, or aging. Some hip injuries heal quickly, while others may require surgery or long-term treatment. Learning about common hip injuries can help people recognize symptoms and understand how these injuries are treated. Here are the top five hip injuries.
1. Hip Strain
A hip strain happens when muscles or tendons around the hip become stretched or torn. This injury often occurs during sports, running, dancing, or lifting heavy objects. Sudden movements or overuse can place too much stress on the muscles.
People with a hip strain may feel pain in the hip or groin area. They may also notice swelling, muscle spasms, stiffness, or trouble walking. The pain often becomes worse during movement.
Treatment usually begins with rest and avoiding activities that cause pain. Ice packs can reduce swelling during the first few days after the injury. Doctors may recommend anti-inflammatory medicine to reduce discomfort. Gentle stretching and physical therapy exercises help strengthen the muscles and improve flexibility. Most hip strains heal within a few weeks, but severe muscle tears may take longer.
It is important to seek medical attention if hip pain is severe, follows an injury, or if there is a sudden loss of strength or movement in the leg
2. Hip Bursitis
Hip bursitis occurs when a small fluid-filled sac called a bursa becomes inflamed. The bursa helps reduce friction between bones, muscles, and tendons. Repeated movement, injury, or long periods of standing can irritate the bursa.
Symptoms include pain on the outside of the hip, tenderness, swelling, and difficulty lying on the affected side. Walking, climbing stairs, or running may make the pain worse.
Treatment for hip bursitis usually includes rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medicine. Physical therapy exercises can improve flexibility and strengthen the muscles around the hip. Doctors may recommend avoiding activities that place pressure on the hip.
Corticosteroid injections are sometimes used to reduce inflammation and pain. Surgery is rarely needed but may be considered in severe cases.
It is important to seek medical attention if hip pain is severe, follows an injury, or if there is a sudden loss of strength or movement in the leg
3. Hip Fractures
A hip fracture means the hip bone is broken. Hip fractures are serious injuries that often happen after falls, especially in older adults with weak bones from osteoporosis. Car accidents and sports injuries can also cause hip fractures.
People with a hip fracture usually feel severe pain in the hip or groin. They may not be able to stand or walk. The injured leg may look shorter or turned outward.
Doctors use X-rays or scans to confirm a hip fracture. Most hip fractures require surgery to repair or replace the damaged bone. Metal screws, plates, or rods may be used to hold the bone together. After surgery, physical therapy helps patients regain strength and mobility. Recovery can take several months, especially in older adults. (Click here to learn more about Hip Arthritis)
4. Hip Labral Tear
The hip joint has a ring of cartilage called the labrum. The labrum helps keep the hip joint stable and cushioned. A hip labral tear occurs when this cartilage becomes damaged from sports, repeated twisting movements, or injuries.
People with a labral tear may feel pain in the hip or groin area. Some people notice clicking, locking, or stiffness in the hip joint. The pain may worsen during sports or long periods of sitting.
It is important to seek medical attention if hip pain is severe, follows an injury, or if there is a sudden loss of strength or movement in the leg
Treatment depends on the severity of the tear. Mild cases may improve with rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medicine. Exercises can strengthen the muscles around the hip and improve movement. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to repair or remove the damaged cartilage.
5. Hip Dislocation
A hip dislocation occurs when the ball-shaped top of the thigh bone comes out of the hip socket. This is a serious injury that usually happens during car accidents, falls, or high-impact sports.
A person with a dislocated hip experiences severe pain and cannot move the leg normally. The leg may look twisted or out of position.
It is important to seek medical attention if hip pain is severe, follows an injury, or if there is a sudden loss of strength or movement in the leg
Doctors treat a hip dislocation by carefully moving the hip joint back into place. This procedure is called a reduction. Afterward, the patient may need crutches, rest, and physical therapy to regain movement and strength. Surgery may be necessary if the bones, cartilage, or ligaments are damaged. Recovery may take weeks or months depending on the severity of the injury.
Preventing Hip Injuries
Many hip injuries can be prevented by practicing healthy habits and staying active safely. Warming up before sports or exercise helps prepare the muscles and joints for movement. Stretching improves flexibility and reduces muscle tightness.
Strong muscles around the hips help support the joint and reduce stress on the bones and tendons. Regular exercise and strength training can lower the risk of injury. Maintaining a healthy weight also helps reduce pressure on the hips.
People should wear proper shoes and use safe techniques during sports and lifting. Older adults can reduce the risk of falls by keeping floors clear, using handrails, and improving balance with exercise.
If hip pain is severe, lasts a long time, or makes walking difficult, medical care should be sought. Early treatment can prevent injuries from becoming worse.
Conclusion
The hips are important joints that support movement and body weight every day. Hip strains, bursitis, fractures, labral tears, and dislocations are among the most common hip injuries. These injuries can cause pain, stiffness, weakness, and trouble walking. Treatments may include rest, medicine, physical therapy, injections, or surgery depending on the injury. By understanding these injuries and practicing healthy habits, people can help protect their hips and stay active throughout life.