What is Hip Pain?
Hip pain is a common complaint that can arise from the joint itself, the surrounding muscles and tendons, or be referred from the lower back or pelvis. Accurate diagnosis is essential because treatment for hip joint problems differs significantly from treatment for soft tissue conditions around the hip.
At Lower Limb Clinic, the hip sits at the centre of our multidisciplinary approach. Hip mechanics directly influence both the lower back above and the knee, ankle, and foot below. Our MSK team assesses the full picture, using diagnostic ultrasound, biomechanical analysis, and gait assessment to identify exactly what is driving your pain.
Common Symptoms
- Pain in the groin, outer hip, or buttock
- Pain lying on the affected side at night
- Stiffness first thing in the morning
- Pain climbing stairs or getting in and out of a car
- A limp or altered walking pattern
- Clicking, catching, or locking in the hip
- Pain during or after running or exercise
Common Causes
- Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (hip bursitis / gluteal tendinopathy)
- Hip osteoarthritis
- Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI)
- Labral tears
- Adductor (groin) strain
- Referred pain from the lumbar spine
- Piriformis syndrome
- Stress fracture (in runners)
- Iliotibial band syndrome
How We Treat Hip Pain
Our approach combines hands-on MSK assessment and treatment with biomechanical analysis of the lower limb. We use in-house diagnostic ultrasound to assess soft tissue structures around the hip, and gait analysis to understand how your hip mechanics interact with your knee, ankle, and foot. Treatment includes manual therapy, targeted strengthening, and, where appropriate, shockwave therapy, injection therapy, or orthotic prescription.
MSK Assessment
Exercise Rehabilitation
Shockwave Therapy
Biomechanical Assessment
Ready to get hip pain treated?
When to Seek Professional Help
- Hip pain persists for more than two weeks
- Pain is affecting your walking or sleep
- Morning stiffness lasts more than 30 minutes
- You cannot bear weight on the affected leg
- Hip pain is developing during running or exercise
- You have groin pain that has not been properly assessed
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Hip Pain at Lower Limb Clinic.
Clinically reviewed by Paul McMullan
MSc Podiatric Sports Medicine (QMUL) · FRCPSGlasg · HCPC Registered
Lead Podiatrist & Clinical Director, Lower Limb Clinic Belfast