Patient guide
Hip pain
Pain in the groin, the side of the thigh or the buttock — possible causes and warning signs not to ignore.
Pain around the hip may come from the hip joint, the surrounding muscles and tendons, and sometimes from the spine. Identifying the source of the pain is the first step towards appropriate treatment.
Most common causes
- hip osteoarthritis
- trochanteric bursitis and gluteal tendon problems
- overuse in physically active people
- femoroacetabular impingement
- pain radiating from the lumbar spine
When to see an orthopaedic specialist
- pain in the groin, the side of the thigh or the buttock lasts longer than a few weeks
- the hip is stiff, especially in the morning or after sitting for a long time
- it is hard to put on shoes, get into a car or climb stairs
- you start to limp
- pain occurs at night or when lying on your side
When to seek urgent help
If after a fall — especially in an older person — it is impossible to stand on the leg and the leg is shortened or turned outwards, this may indicate a hip (femoral neck) fracture. Call for help (112) or go to a hospital emergency department (SOR) without delay.
The information on this page is general and does not replace a medical consultation.