County Physio | Haddington & East Lothian
Introduction
Hip pain is extremely common and can affect people of all ages — whether you’re active, sedentary, recovering from injury or living with arthritis. Because the hip is one of the body’s largest and most important weight-bearing joints, even mild irritation can impact walking, sleep and daily activities.
In this article, we’ll break down the five most common causes of hip pain and explain how physiotherapy can help you recover safely and effectively.
1. Osteoarthritis of the Hip
Hip osteoarthritis is one of the leading causes of chronic hip pain, especially in adults over 50. As the cartilage in the joint wears down, the hip becomes stiff, painful and less mobile.
Common symptoms include:
- Groin, thigh or buttock pain
- Stiffness in the morning or after sitting
- Difficulty walking long distances
- Reduced range of motion
How physiotherapy helps:
Physiotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for hip arthritis. Techniques such as manual therapy, mobility work, and strengthening exercises help improve joint function, reduce pain and delay progression.
2. Hip Bursitis (Trochanteric Bursitis)
Hip bursitis occurs when the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) around the hip joint become irritated or inflamed. It often affects people who sit for long periods, walk long distances, or have muscle imbalances.
Typical symptoms:
- Pain on the outside of the hip
- Pain when lying on the affected side
- Discomfort climbing stairs
How physiotherapy helps:
A physiotherapist can use hands-on treatment, strengthening, stretching, taping and postural correction to settle inflammation and restore normal hip mechanics.
3. Muscle Imbalance or Weakness
Weakness in the glutes, core or hip stabilisers can cause the hip joint to move inefficiently, leading to irritation and pain over time.
This is especially common in:
- Runners
- Office workers
- People returning to exercise after a break
How physiotherapy helps:
We identify which muscles are weak or overactive and build a personalised hip strengthening programme to restore balance and prevent recurring flare-ups.
4. Hip Labral Tear
The labrum is a ring of cartilage that helps stabilise the hip joint. Tears are often caused by repetitive strain, structural issues, or sudden twisting injuries.
Symptoms often include:
- Sharp groin pain
- Clicking or catching in the hip
- Difficulty rotating the leg
How physiotherapy helps:
Physiotherapy focuses on restoring stability, improving hip control and reducing strain on the injured area. Many people can recover without surgery when treated early.
5. Referred Pain from the Lower Back or Pelvis
Not all hip pain originates from the hip joint itself. Problems in the lower back or pelvis — such as nerve irritation, muscle tension or SIJ dysfunction — can cause pain that feels like it’s coming from the hip.
How physiotherapy helps:
A thorough assessment identifies the true source of your pain. Treatment may include spinal mobilisation, pelvic realignment, nerve glides, and targeted exercises to restore normal movement patterns.
When Should You See a Physiotherapist?
You should book an assessment if you have:
- Hip pain lasting longer than 1–2 weeks
- Pain affecting sleep, walking or daily activities
- Clicking, catching or locking sensations
- Pain after an injury
- Gradual worsening stiffness or weakness
Early treatment prevents long-term problems and gets you moving comfortably again.
Physiotherapy for Hip Pain at County Physio
At County Physio in Haddington, we specialise in identifying the root cause of hip pain and creating tailored treatment plans. Our approach combines:
- Hands-on manual therapy
- Exercise rehabilitation
- Postural and movement analysis
- Dry needling (if appropriate)
- Taping, laser therapy and electrotherapy
- Long-term prevention strategies
If you’re experiencing hip discomfort, don’t wait for it to get worse — we’re here to help.
