The hip joint is a remarkable and intricate structure that plays a pivotal role in our body’s mobility and stability. The junction of the thigh bone (femur) and the pelvis, the hip joint enables a wide range of movements, from walking and running to sitting and bending. However, like any complex joint, the hip is susceptible to injuries that can cause pain and discomfort and limit mobility.

In this article, we’ll highlight some of the most common hip injuries, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

Why are hip injuries common in athletes?

Hip injuries are common among athletes due to the heavy demands on the joint made by intense physical activity and repetitive motions and because of the potential for sudden impacts. Factors such as overuse, inadequate warm-ups, improper technique, and biomechanical imbalances can contribute to the increased risk.

Additionally, sports that involve rapid changes in direction, jumping, and high-impact movements put significant stress on the hip joint, making it susceptible to various types of injuries. Proper training, conditioning, and injury prevention strategies are essential for reducing the occurrence of hip injuries in athletes.

8 Common Hip Injuries in Sports

Here are some of the most common sports-related injuries and conditions that cause hip pain.

1. Hip Flexor Strain

Hip flexor strains, or a pulled muscle, occur when the muscles that allow you to move your thigh towards your chest and bend at the waist are stretched or torn. This injury is frequently seen in athletes who engage in activities involving sudden accelerations, such as sprinting or kicking. Common symptoms include pain in the front of the hip or groin area, difficulty raising the knee, and discomfort while walking.

Treatments for Hip Flexor Strain

Rest, ice, and heat are often the initial recommendation for mild strains. Physical therapy exercises to improve flexibility and strength can be crucial for a full recovery.

2. Trochanteric Bursitis

Trochanteric bursitis is another common cause of hip pain and occurs when the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that provides cushioning between the iliotibial band and the greater trochanter bone of the hip, becomes inflamed. Repetitive activities like running or standing for prolonged periods can contribute to this condition. Symptoms include pain on the outside of the hip and tenderness when pressure is applied.

Treatments for Trochanteric Bursitis

Rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, and stretching or strengthening exercises can help alleviate symptoms. Physical therapy may be prescribed to address muscle imbalances and improve biomechanics.

3. Hip Labral Tear

The labrum is a ring of cartilage that lines the hip socket, providing stability and cushioning to the joint. Tears can result from overuse, trauma, or structural abnormalities in the hip joint. Individuals with labral tears may experience hip pain, clicking or catching sensations, and a limited range of motion.

Treatments for Hip Labral Tear

Options for treatment include modifying your activity, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. In some cases, your doctor might recommend a hip arthroscopy, a minimally invasive surgery, to repair the damaged tissue.

4. Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)

Femoroacetabular impingement, or FAI, is a hip condition where the ball of the hip joint (the femoral head and neck) makes abnormal contact with the hip socket (the acetabulum). This condition is often associated with labral tears. It can cause hip pain, a limited range of motion, and cartilage damage.

Treatments for Femoroacetabular Impingement

Rest, activity modification, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy to improve hip function and strength can all help manage symptoms and improve hip function. A doctor may recommend a hip arthroscopy if pain persists: this procedure reshapes the hip joint by removing excess bone, allowing for improved joint clearance and reduced impingement.

5. Snapping Hip Syndrome

This condition involves a snapping sensation or sound as the hip moves, often caused by the iliotibial (IT) band over the outer hip or the iliopsoas tendon (hip flexor) moving over the front of the hip. Snapping hip syndrome can be painless or associated with discomfort, especially during activities that involve repetitive hip flexion or extension.

Treatments for Snapping Hip Syndrome

Depending on the underlying cause, treatment may involve stretching, strengthening exercises, and modifying activities to reduce popping.

6. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is due to wear-and-tear of the joint that involves the breakdown of cartilage. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced joint function. Hip arthritis is very common and can also be caused by genetic factors, aging, and previous injuries.

Treatments for Osteoarthritis

Management focuses on pain relief through over-the-counter pain relievers, physical therapy, lifestyle modifications (including changing from high to low-impact activities), and, in advanced cases, hip replacement surgery.

7. Stress Fracture

A hip stress fracture is a small crack in the hip bone, typically at the neck of the femur, often caused by repetitive stress or overuse, leading to pain and discomfort. This is occasionally seen in endurance athletes, such as long distance runners.

Treatments for Stress Fractures

Rest, the use of crutches to limit weight on the hip,  and over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain and inflammation. Once the fracture begins to heal, physical therapy and a gradual return to activities will help prevent re-injury.

8. Hip Fractures

Hip fractures can result from falls or high-impact trauma. Fractures can occur in the femoral neck, intertrochanteric region, or subtrochanteric region of the femur. Symptoms include severe pain, inability to bear weight on the affected leg, and external rotation of the leg. Fractures are commonly seen in older adults with weakened bones.

Treatments for Hip Fractures

Surgery is typically required to stabilize the fracture, followed by rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility.

FAQs about Hip Injuries in Sports

Here are answers to some common questions about hip injuries.

What sports have a lot of hip injuries?

Sports that tend to result in a high number of hip injuries include:

• Football
• Soccer
• Ice hockey
• Running
• Basketball
• Gymnastics
• Dance
• Martial arts
• Track and field
• Cycling

The pivoting and rotational movements, repetitive actions, and physical contact in these sports can contribute to hip strains, labral tears, stress fractures, and other hip-related problems.

What can I do to prevent hip injuries while playing?

Maintaining hip health is crucial for overall mobility and quality of life. To prevent hip injuries while playing sports, consider these strategies:

• Warm up properly.
• Focus on correct technique.
• Strengthen the hip and core muscles.
• Maintain flexibility through stretching.
• Progress your training gradually.
• Take adequate time to rest and recover.
• Wear appropriate footwear.
• Cross-train to reduce strain.
• Listen to your body and address discomfort.
• Stay hydrated and eat well.
• Perform hip-strengthening exercises.
• Cool down with stretches.
• Seek professional guidance when needed.

By incorporating these practices into your sports routine, you can significantly reduce the risk of hip injuries and enjoy a healthier, injury-free athletic experience.

How do I know if my hip injury is serious?

The hip is critical to mobility, so if it’s causing you pain, it’s best not to take chances. Seek care from a doctor if rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers haven’t made it feel better within a few days.

How long does it take to recover from a hip injury?

Recovery time will vary depending on the type and severity of the injury and on whether the patient sought prompt medical care. With rest and basic home care, mild hip injuries will feel better within a week or two. More severe injuries – and injuries that didn’t receive proper medical attention – may take weeks or months to recover and can result in chronic pain if not properly addressed.

When should I see a doctor for a hip injury?

As mentioned above, you should see a doctor if your hip pain is persistent and doesn’t go away within a couple days after basic home care.

You should seek out urgent care or an emergency room if you’re experiencing any of the following after a hip injury:

• Intense pain
• Significant swelling
• Inability to move your leg or your hip
• Inability to bear weight on the side of the injury
• Any visible deformation of the joint
• Fever, chills, redness, or other signs of infection

Don’t sit on your injured hip 

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of common hip injuries is essential for seeking timely medical attention and implementing appropriate treatment plans. Whether through rest, physical therapy, medications, or surgical interventions, the goal is to restore functionality and minimize pain, allowing you to continue enjoying an active lifestyle. 

Consulting a medical professional is the best course of action for proper diagnosis and personalized treatment. At Alexander Orthopaedic Associates, our sports medicine team specializes in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal problems related to athletics and intense physical activity. If you’ve been suffering from hip pain, don’t put off seeking treatment: make an appointment today.