Experiences with
Hip pain

Causes of hip pain

There are lots of possible causes of hip pain. It might be caused by a sudden injury or a longer-lasting problem such as arthritis.

Your symptoms might give you an idea what could be causing the pain. But do not self-diagnose, see a GP if you're worried.

How you can ease hip pain

There are things you can do to help ease hip pain.

try to avoid putting too much strain on your hip – it's best to keep moving if you can, but try not to overdo things
put an ice pack (or bag of frozen peas) in a towel on the painful area for up to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours
use painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen gel (or ibuprofen tablets if needed)
wear comfortable, shock-absorbing shoes with a soft sole
try to lose weight if you're overweight
try gentle hip stretching exercises

do not carry anything heavy
do not sit in low chairs – this can put extra pressure on your hips

hip pain is stopping you doing normal activities or affecting your sleep
the pain is getting worse or keeps coming back
the pain has not improved after treating it at home for 2 weeks
you have hip stiffness for more than 30 minutes after waking up

you have severe hip pain that started suddenly but you've not had a fall or injured your hip
your hip is swollen and feels hot
the skin around your hip has changed colour
you have hip pain and feel generally unwell and have a high temperature or feel hot and shivery

You can call 111 or get help from 111 online .

What we mean by severe pain

Severe pain:: always there and so bad it's hard to think or talk

you cannot sleep

it's very hard to move, get out of bed, go to the bathroom, wash or dress
Moderate pain:: always there

makes it hard to concentrate or sleep

you can manage to get up, wash or dress
Mild pain:: comes and goes

is annoying but does not stop you doing daily activities

you have severe hip pain after a fall or injury
you're unable to walk or put weight on your leg
you have any tingling or loss of feeling in your hip or leg after an injury

Find your nearest A&E

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Treatments for hip pain

Treatment for hip pain depends on what's causing it.

A GP might:

prescribe stronger painkillers
give you some simple exercises to try
refer you for physiotherapy for more help with exercises and stretches to ease the pain
refer you for occupational therapy – an occupational therapist can help with things to make your life easier, such as walking sticks or walking aids
refer you to a specialist – the specialist may do a scan and discuss treatments such as steroid injections or surgery

Some people with pain caused by a damaged hip joint may eventually need a hip replacement if other treatments do not help.

Self-refer for treatment

If you have hip pain, you might be able to refer yourself directly to services for help with your condition without seeing a GP.

To find out if there are any services in your area:

ask the reception staff at your GP surgery
check your GP surgery's website
contact your integrated care board (ICB) – find your local ICB
search online for NHS treatment for hip pain near you

CausesSelf-careMedical treatments

Lots of things can cause hip pain. Common causes include a sprain or strain and arthritis. Sometimes it can be something serious like a hip fracture.

To ease hip pain, it can help to avoid putting too much strain on your hip, take painkillers, do gentle hip stretches and avoid carrying heavy things.

Treatment for hip pain depends on the cause. A GP may recommend strong painkillers and exercises. Some people may need hip replacement surgery.