Hip pain is a relatively common complaint from many people. Runners may feel it after putting in too many miles, older people may feel it when they first wake up, and people from every walk of life can feel it after a single fall or injury. If you’re unsure what’s causing your hip pain, we’ll look at some common reasons for hip pain in Flagstaff, AZ and what you can do about it.

Bursitis

Your bones in your hips don’t bump up against one another. Instead, they’re protected by fluid-filled sacs called bursae. If these sacs become irritated in any way, they’ll start to swell. Those with bursitis will feel it most in their groin area.

Arthritis

Hip arthritis occurs when the cartilage in your joint starts to wear down. Found at the top of your thighbone, the cartilage allows the joint to move smoothly every time you walk. When it starts to deteriorate, there’s less space between each bone. The thinner it gets, the stiffer and more painful it is. The most advanced cases will experience bone-on-bone contact, which can be particularly unbearable.

Sneaky Injuries

Not every strain or sprain is as apparent as others. Sometimes, even getting out of bed the wrong way can lead to hip pain. Whether it’s a tendon tear or a hip dislocation, not all hip injuries present with the same symptoms.

Getting Help

Many hip injuries are solved with simple rest and relaxation. The more you give it time to rest and heal without aggravating the condition by walking or exercising, the more likely it is to resolve on its own. That said, there’s a danger in trying to treat a more serious condition on your own, especially if you don’t know exactly what’s causing the pain.

If you’re looking for ways to treat or prevent a hip injury, you should also consider seeing a qualified physical therapist in Flagstaff, AZ. With the right exercises and the proper recommendations, you may be able to drastically strengthen your hips and core or, at the very least, slow the progression of deterioration. At Base Camp Physical Therapy and Performance, we’re here to help you get the care you need.