Hip Pain in Active Adults: Common Causes and When to Seek Treatment

Hip Pain in Active Adults: Common Causes and When to Seek Treatment

Hip pain is often associated with ageing, but many active adults experience hip problems long before later life. Whether you enjoy running, cycling, gym training, golf, tennis, or recreational sports, hip discomfort can significantly affect your performance and daily activities.

Understanding the potential causes of hip pain and seeking early treatment can help prevent long-term joint damage and improve outcomes. PJS Orthopaedics provides specialised assessment and treatment for a wide range of hip conditions.

Common Causes of Hip Pain

Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)

FAI occurs when abnormal bone growth causes the bones of the hip joint to rub together during movement. Over time, this can damage cartilage and surrounding structures.

Symptoms may include:

• Groin pain during activity
• Reduced hip flexibility
• Pain when sitting for extended periods
• Clicking or catching sensations

Labral Tears

The labrum is a ring of cartilage that helps stabilize the hip joint. Tears can occur due to sports injuries, repetitive movements, or structural abnormalities within the hip.

Common symptoms include:

• Deep hip or groin pain
• Clicking or locking sensations
• Reduced range of motion
• Pain during twisting movements

Tendon and Muscle Injuries

Overuse, training errors, or sudden increases in activity levels can lead to tendon inflammation or muscle strains around the hip.

These injuries are particularly common among runners, cyclists, and athletes involved in sports requiring rapid direction changes.

Early Osteoarthritis

Although often associated with older adults, osteoarthritis can develop earlier due to previous injuries, genetic factors, or underlying joint abnormalities.

Early symptoms may include stiffness, discomfort after activity, and reduced mobility.

When Should You Seek Medical Advice?

Many people try to manage hip pain independently. However, professional assessment is recommended if:

• Pain persists for several weeks
• Symptoms are worsening
• Hip pain affects work or exercise
• Mobility becomes limited
• There is locking, catching, or instability within the joint

Early diagnosis often allows for more treatment options and may help avoid progression of joint damage.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Depending on the underlying cause, treatment may include:

• Activity modification
• Physiotherapy
• Strength and mobility exercises
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Image-guided injections

Many patients achieve significant improvement without surgery when treatment is started early.

When Might Surgery Be Recommended?

Surgery may be considered when conservative treatments have not provided sufficient relief or when structural problems are causing ongoing symptoms.

Procedures may include:

• Hip arthroscopy (keyhole surgery)
• Repair of labral tears
• Treatment of hip impingement
• Hip replacement surgery in cases of advanced joint degeneration

The most appropriate treatment depends on the individual’s condition, symptoms, and lifestyle goals.

Maintaining Long-Term Hip Health

Keeping the hips healthy involves:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Staying physically active
• Building strength around the hip and core muscles
• Addressing injuries promptly
• Following appropriate training programs

Taking a proactive approach to hip health can help maintain mobility and participation in the activities you enjoy.

Book a Consultation

If hip pain is affecting your lifestyle, sport, or mobility, Dr Parminder J Singh and the team at PJS Orthopaedics can provide a thorough assessment and personalized treatment plan to help you return to the activities you enjoy.