Hip Pain

Some of the most common causes of hip pain include: 

• Osteoarthritis – cartilage breakdown that causes stiffness and grinding 
• Bursitis – inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joint 
• Labral tears – damage to the cartilage rim inside your hip socket 
• Tendinitis and muscle strains – common in athletes and active adults 
• Hip fractures – usually from falls or low bone density 
• Hip dysplasia – structural instability in the joint 
• Pinched nerves – such as sciatica, which radiates into the hip 
• Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) – extra bone growth that restricts movement 

The source of hip pain isn’t always where you feel it – which is why a full-body approach is essential to long-term recovery. 

Hip pain symptoms can present in many ways, but some signs indicate it’s time to seek help: 

• Persistent pain in your groin, outer hip, or thigh that doesn’t improve 
• Stiffness or tightness when standing, walking, or after sitting for long periods 
• Clicking, catching, or locking sensations during movement 
• Weakness, limping, or instability when putting weight on your leg 
• Pain that disrupts sleep or everyday activities 

If these hip pain symptoms are interfering with your life, don’t wait – physical therapy can help you take control before things get worse. 

It’s easy to brush off hip pain or chalk it up to getting older – but that’s not always the case. One common myth is that hip pain is just a normal part of aging and there’s nothing you can do about it. In truth, many hip issues can be treated without surgery, especially if caught early.  

Another misconception is that rest will make it better. While taking a short break might help, too much rest can actually make things worse by causing stiffness and weakness.  

And if you’ve heard that surgery is your only option, don’t worry – most people improve with simple, guided treatments like physical therapy for hip pain. If the pain isn’t going away, it’s not something to ignore. Getting the right care early on can make a big difference. 

How we provide hip pain treatment. 

At Ivy, your recovery isn’t just about reducing pain; it’s about restoring strength, movement, and confidence. Our therapists personalize your hip pain treatment plan based on what’s really going on, not just where it hurts. 

Treatment may include: 

• Physical therapy for hip pain to improve joint stability and reduce strain 
• Manual therapy and hands-on techniques to ease tension and restore motion 
• Stretching and strengthening exercises to support long-term join health 
• Postural and gait training to prevent future flare-ups 
• Pain relief techniques like heat, ice, or electrical stimulation when needed 

We’ll meet you where you are and build a plan to help you get where you want to go. 

Hip pain exercises for recovery. 

No two recovery plans are alike, but the right exercises for hip pain can make all the difference. Your physical therapist will guide you through movements that improve: 

• Mobility – restoring range of motion 
• Strength – targeting glutes, hip flexors, and core muscles 
• Balance and stability – reducing fall risk and improving control 
• Movement efficiency – teaching your body how to move without compensation 

You’ll build strength from the ground up – one movement at a time. 

When to see a hip pain specialist. 

If hip pain is holding you back from walking, working, or enjoying the things you love, don’t wait to get help. You should reach out if: 

• Your pain has lasted longer than a week 
• You’re struggling with daily tasks like standing or climbing stairs 
• You feel unsteady or notice a change in how you move 
• You’re recovering from hip surgery or a recent injury 

You want to stay active and avoid more invasive treatment