Many people experience hip pain at one time or another. While this is more common later in life, people of all ages can be effected. Here are three causes of hip pain that one may experience.

Osteoarthritis

The hip is one of the largest joints in the body and it is formed by the thigh bone and the pelvis bone. This ball and socket joint contains cartilage which cushions the bones and prevents them from rubbing on each other as a person moves. Over time however, the cartilage wears down due to use. This causes arthritis, which is the most common cause of hip pain according to Washing University Orthopedics. This pain of osteoarthritis can be felt in the hip, groin, thigh and buttocks. Other symptoms of osteoarthritis include stiffness of the joint, which is typically worst after periods of rest. The US National Library of Medicine reports that the treatment of osteoarthritis involves the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) like ibuprofen and naproxen.

Piriformis Syndrome

Piriformis syndrome is another condition which can cause pain in the hip joint. This piriformis pain can also extend down the leg and cause what is known as sciatica. Other symptoms of this disorder include numbness or tingling sensations in the buttocks. This condition arises when the piriformis muscle presses on the sciatic nerve and is usually treated by resting the limb and physical therapy. Rice University reports that its treatment also involves progressively stretching the piriformis muscle.

Snapping Hip

The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons states that snapping hip, which is also known as iliopsoas tendonitis, is a condition that is characterized by a popping sound in the hip when walking or getting up from a chair. This snapping sound occurs when the iliopsoas muscle moves over a bony protrusion on the hip. It can also be caused by tightness in the muscles and tendons surrounding the hip joint. Snapping hip usually develops in persons who engage in a lot of bending at the hip like athletes. Although it can be painless, iliopsoas tendonitis can also be painful and the popping sensation can be annoying. The treatment of snapping hip involves resting the joint and physical therapy exercises. The University of California San Diego also reports that the treatment can include the use of anti-inflammatories and cortisone injections.

Written by: Marian Kim, FizzNiche Staff Writer