What you may feel
- A deep groin ache or pain on the outer side of the hip.
- Walking, climbing stairs or prolonged standing may worsen pain.
- Restricted hip movement may make putting on socks or shoes difficult.
- Side-lying may hurt, particularly when the outer hip is painful.
- Limping or pain spreading into the thigh, sometimes the knee, may occur.
How it is assessed
Assessment reviews hip movement, gait, tendon tenderness and possible lower back involvement. Clinical findings determine which tests are needed.
Explain how far you can walk, which footwear you use and which movements hurt. Mention recent injury or changes in activity.
Approaches to care
Care includes suitable activity adjustment, exercise and pain management. Lateral hip pain and problems inside the joint may need different approaches.
Discuss realistic walking, work or exercise goals with your clinician. At follow-up, describe changes after activity and how long pain lasted.
When to seek urgent help
Inability to bear weight after injury, a hot red joint with fever, or a suddenly cold pale foot need urgent assessment.
Further reading: NHS
This is educational information and does not replace an individual medical assessment. Similar symptoms alone do not establish a diagnosis.