Hip

Why does my hip hurt?

To understand why your hip might hurt, it helps to know how this important joint works.

Your hip is a ball-and-socket joint, where the rounded head of your thighbone (femur) fits into a cup-shaped part of your pelvis, called the acetabulum.

When everything moves smoothly, the joint allows you to walk, sit, and bend without discomfort – often without even thinking about it.

But when the joint is damaged or diseased, pain and stiffness can make everyday activities difficult, sometimes affecting every part of your life.

Causes of arthritis

Osteoarthritis

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With Osteoarthritis, the smooth cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones gradually wears away. As the cartilage thins, the bones in your knee may begin to rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. This is the most common type of arthritis and often develops with age or after years of joint stress.

Rheumatoid arthritis

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Rheumatoid arthritis, sometimes called inflammatory arthritis, is an autoimmune condition. This means your body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of your joints, leading to chronic inflammation. Over time, this can damage cartilage and bone, causing pain and deformity if left untreated.2

Post-traumatic arthritis

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Post-traumatic arthritis can develop after a serious injury, such as a fracture or ligament tear that affects the knee joint. When the joint surface becomes uneven due to the injury, it increases friction during movement. Over time, this wear and tear can lead to arthritis and joint pain.1,3

What can I do?

If hip pain is affecting you or any of your family member, start by visiting a trusted hospital and speaking with your doctor immediately.

If hip pain is affecting your daily life, start by talking to your doctor. In most cases, they’ll begin with non-surgical treatments such as medications, physiotherapy, lifestyle changes, or activity modifications to help relieve pain and improve movement. If these options don’t provide enough relief, your doctor may discuss advanced treatments, including hip replacement surgery, to restore comfort and mobility.

Where can I learn more

Managing your hip pain can be confusing, but the right information can help. These resources can guide you as you learn more about your condition and treatment options.