Hip pain physiotherapy in Ilford

Where you feel hip pain gives a strong clue to its cause. Pain deep in the groin often comes from the joint itself; pain on the outside of the hip, especially lying on that side, is often from the gluteal tendons; and buttock pain can come from the lower back.

About hip pain

The hip is a deep ball-and-socket joint surrounded by powerful muscles. Problems can affect the joint surface, the cartilage rim (labrum), the tendons around it, or be referred from the spine.

Common causes

• Hip osteoarthritis
• Gluteal tendinopathy and trochanteric bursitis
• Muscle strains in the groin, hip flexors or buttock
• Femoroacetabular impingement and labral problems in active people
• Referred pain from the lower back

Signs and symptoms

• Groin pain when walking, putting on socks or getting out of a car
• Pain on the outside of the hip lying on that side
• Stiffness after sitting
• Limping or reduced walking distance

How physiotherapy helps

• Thorough assessment of the hip, back and pelvis
• Strengthening for the gluteal and thigh muscles
• Joint mobilisation and soft tissue treatment
• Advice on sleeping positions, sitting and stairs
• A graded return to walking, running or sport

How long does recovery take?

Gluteal tendon pain often improves over 8 to 12 weeks of targeted exercise. Hip arthritis responds well to strengthening and activity, with many people improving pain and function within six to eight weeks.

When to see a doctor

Seek urgent help if you cannot put weight on your leg after a fall, especially if you are older, as this may be a hip fracture. Also see a doctor for hip pain with fever, or in a child who is limping.