Understanding Common Causes of Hip Pain

Hip pain is a frequent complaint , particularly among women and older adults, often leading to frustration and uncertainty when the discomfort lingers without a clear cause. Two of the most common reasons for hip pain are hip bursitis and a worn hip joint caused by arthritis. Hip bursitis occurs when the bursae—small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones and tendons around the hip joint—become inflamed, causing sharp pain usually felt on the outside of the hip. Women might notice this as pain in the left hip area or right hip area. On the other hand, pain originating from a worn hip joint tends to be a deep, aching sensation resulting from joint wear and tear. Understanding what causes hip bursitis and what might cause hip pain in a woman is vital, as the treatments for these conditions can differ quite significantly.

Recognising Early Warning Signs: Bursitis vs Arthritis

Telling the difference between bursitis and arthritis early on is important for choosing the right treatment. Early signs of a problematic hip or hip arthritis often include aching pain in the groin or thigh, stiffness after sitting for a while, and a gradual loss of movement. Sudden hip pain without any injury is more typical of bursitis, which usually causes pain that worsens with activity but eases when resting. By contrast, joint wear pain tends to linger even at rest, hinting at more serious damage. Being aware of key signs that you might need a hip replacement—such as persistent groin pain, stiffness that limits everyday tasks, and reduced mobility—can help you decide when to seek further medical advice.

Research shows this is far from a rare problem: “5.6% of the population studied had symptoms suggestive of osteoarthrosis of the hip, or had been successfully treated for it.”

The Importance of Hip Biomechanics

A growing area of understanding in hip health is biomechanics — the way forces move through and affect the hip joint during movement. As experts explain, “understanding of the biomechanics of the hip has led to the development of materials, design and fixation of implants.” In other words, knowing how the hip works mechanically helps surgeons choose the best implant designs and surgery methods, improving the chances of a successful hip replacement. Whether natural or artificial, a hip joint that works well biomechanically tends to give better, longer-lasting results.

Aggravating Factors That Signal More Serious Joint Damage

Certain symptoms and triggers can point to more serious joint damage rather than a simple case of bursitis . For example, ongoing stiffness—especially in the morning or after resting—pain at night, or discomfort when putting weight on the hip are common signs of hip arthritis . Unlike bursitis, where the pain is usually on the outer hip, arthritis pain often occurs in the groin, inner thigh, or buttocks. If you find tasks like walking, climbing stairs, or getting dressed increasingly difficult, or if rest no longer eases the pain, it suggests the joint may be deteriorating. Additionally, groin pain before hip replacement, pain involving both hips, or pain radiating down the leg are important red flags needing medical assessment.

To add perspective on how widespread serious cases are: “0.7% of the survey group had already been operated upon for this condition, and a further 0.5% would have benefited from total hip replacement .”

Treatment Options: From Conservative Care to Surgery

For bursitis, treatment usually starts with conservative, non-surgical methods. These include rest, applying ice, anti-inflammatory medicines, and exercises to ease hip and leg pain. However, if symptoms persist despite these measures, surgery such as a hip replacement might be needed. Doctors distinguish between bursitis and joint degeneration through physical exams and imaging tests to determine the best course of action. While hip replacement surgery can offer great relief, not everyone is suitable for the operation due to other health conditions. Discussing the risks, benefits, and timing of surgery with your healthcare provider is essential.

It’s also important to remember that some people who need the operation may be unfit for it: “An additional 1.3% of the persons studied needed this operation, but were unfit for surgery.” For these individuals, tailored conservative management becomes especially important.

Thanks to deeper biomechanical insights , hip replacement techniques continue to improve. “It is essential to have good knowledge of the biomechanics of the hip to achieve better clinical results for patients,” experts agree. This knowledge shapes choices around implant design, surgical methods, and positioning—helping ensure better recovery and longer-lasting function.

While all surgery carries some risks, hip replacement has proven remarkably successful. As one review points out, “for the large majority of patients who survive these early hazards, total hip replacement has proved one of the outstanding surgical successes of the past 20 years, dramatically relieving pain and disability.” Encouragingly, “reports from several centres are now showing how well the success of the early implants may be expected to endure.”

Some complications may still appear over time, such as loosening or fracture of the implant, particularly with older designs. But “metal-on-polyethylene prostheses are now used almost universally and have had a much better record.” Most patients continue to enjoy the benefits years after surgery: “A review of 100 Charnley hips after 10 years showed that 88% of the 67 survivors still rated their condition clinically as excellent or good.”

When to Seek Professional Help

Living with hip pain can be difficult, but recognising when to seek professional advice is vital. You should see a healthcare provider if you experience severe or rapidly worsening pain, if your daily life is significantly affected, or if new symptoms develop after previous hip surgery, including treatment for bursitis after hip replacement. Avoid prolonged self-treatment if pain worsens or doesn’t improve. Keeping an open and honest dialogue with your doctor about all treatment options—including medical, surgical, and lifestyle choices—will help you get the best possible care. Early diagnosis combined with timely treatment can greatly improve your mobility and comfort.

Conclusion: Taking Control of Your Hip Health

Knowing when hip pain signals a more serious issue, understanding its causes, and recognising when a hip replacement might be needed are all crucial steps to safeguarding your hip health. Don’t ignore persistent or worsening pain—seeking expert advice early can lead to better diagnosis and treatment. Timely intervention not only eases pain but can also improve your quality of life. With the right support and care, many people regain their mobility and live more comfortable, active lives.

References

Harrold, A. J. (1982). Outlook for hip replacement. BMJ, 284(6310), 139-140. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.284.6310.139

Lee, Y.-K., Choi, J. H., Won, H., & Koo, K.-H. (2019). Biomechanics of hip and hip replacement arthroplasty. The Journal of the Korean Orthopaedic Association, 54(5), 377. https://doi.org/10.4055/jkoa.2019.54.5.377

Wilcock, G. K. (1979). The prevalence of osteoarthrosis of the hip requiring total hip replacement in the elderly. International Journal of Epidemiology, 8(3), 247-250. https://doi.org/10.1093/ije/8.3.247