Hip pain can make everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs or getting out of a chair feel like a challenge.
Whether it’s a sharp pain during movement or a dull ache that lingers, hip discomfort can significantly impact your quality of life. The good news is – physiotherapy can help.
Common Causes of Hip Pain
Hip pain can arise from a variety of sources, including:
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Osteoarthritis – wear and tear of the hip joint cartilage, common in older adults.
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Bursitis – inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursa) that cushion the hip.
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Gluteal tendinopathy – irritation or degeneration of the gluteus medius/minimus tendons, often felt on the outer hip.
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Hip labral tear – damage to the cartilage ring around the hip socket, sometimes caused by trauma or repetitive twisting.
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Referred pain – issues in the lower back or pelvis can refer pain to the hip region.
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Muscle imbalances or weakness – can overload the hip joint and surrounding tissues.
When to Seek Help
If you’re experiencing persistent hip discomfort, stiffness, pain with walking, or disturbed sleep due to hip pain, it’s time to get it checked out. Early assessment can help avoid worsening symptoms and support faster recovery.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
Your physiotherapist will conduct a thorough assessment to understand your movement patterns, joint mobility, and muscle function.
Treatment may include:
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Targeted strengthening exercises – to support and stabilise the hip joint.
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Manual therapy – to reduce stiffness and improve joint mobility.
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Stretching and mobility work – to relieve tightness in surrounding muscles like the hip flexors or glutes.
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Gait retraining and movement education – helping you move more efficiently and reduce strain on the hip.
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Advice on activity modification – so you can stay active while managing symptoms safely.
Getting Back to What You Love
Whether you’re returning to sport, chasing after kids, or simply wanting to walk without pain, physiotherapy can support your goals. With the right treatment plan, most people experience significant relief from hip pain and improve their strength, mobility and confidence in movement.
Need help with hip pain?
Book an assessment with one of our experienced physiotherapists. We’ll help you move better, feel stronger, and get back to doing what you love.