Hip pain can affect people of all ages and activity levels.
It may come on gradually due to wear and tear or overuse, or suddenly following an injury or awkward movement. The pain might be felt in the groin, outer hip, thigh, or even down the leg—sometimes it’s hard to tell exactly where it’s coming from.
At our clinic, we treat a wide range of hip problems including osteoarthritis, bursitis, tendinopathy, labral irritation, and muscle imbalance. We’ll start with a thorough assessment to understand the underlying cause of your symptoms—whether they stem from the hip joint itself, the lower back, or surrounding muscles and tendons.
Your treatment plan will be tailored to you and may include hands-on therapy, exercise rehabilitation, movement retraining, and advice on lifestyle or activity changes. We’ll guide you step by step to improve flexibility, strength, and confidence in your movement.
Our goal is not just to relieve pain but to help you move more freely and get back to the activities that matter to you—whether that’s walking, running, gardening, or simply climbing the stairs comfortably.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes hip pain?
Hip pain can be caused by a number of issues including arthritis, inflammation of tendons or bursae, muscle strain, or referred pain from the lower back. It’s also common in people who sit for long periods, have muscle weakness, or participate in repetitive impact activities like running.
How long does it take to recover from hip pain?
This depends on the cause and duration of your pain. Acute injuries often improve within a few weeks, while more chronic or arthritic conditions can take longer. With the right combination of treatment, exercises, and advice, most people see steady improvement over a few weeks to months.
What treatments are available for hip pain?
Depending on your assessment, treatment may include:
- Manual therapy and joint mobilisation
- Targeted exercises to build strength and control
- Soft tissue techniques
- Acupuncture or dry needling
- Advice on posture, gait, and activity modification
Your physiotherapist will work with you to create an individualised plan that addresses your goals and lifestyle.
Will I need an X-ray, ultrasound or MRI?
In most cases, imaging isn’t needed initially. An X-ray might be useful if arthritis or a fracture is suspected, while ultrasound or MRI may be helpful if symptoms persist or if we need to look more closely at soft tissue structures. Your physiotherapist will guide you if onward referral is appropriate.
Can physiotherapy help prevent hip pain from recurring?
Yes. Physiotherapy can identify and address the factors that contributed to your pain in the first place—such as weakness, stiffness, or poor movement patterns. With ongoing exercises and advice, you can reduce the likelihood of recurrence and keep your hips strong and mobile.