Pain on the outside of the hip frequently indicates bursitis, which is inflammation of the small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joint. This pain may worsen when lying on your side or climbing stairs.
Back of the Hip or Buttock
Pain in the back of the hip often comes from the lower back rather than the hip joint. Conditions such as sciatica or spinal stenosis may send pain signals to the hip area.
Groin Pain With Clicking or Catching
If you feel clicking, catching, or locking along with groin pain, this may suggest a labral tear or hip impingement, particularly in people who stay physically active.
Keeping a simple note about your symptoms—like “pain when standing up” or “hip stiffness after walking”—can help your doctor find the cause faster.
Common Causes of Hip Pain (And What They Feel Like)
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common cause of hip pain in adults over 50. It develops slowly as cartilage in the joint wears down.
Typical symptoms include:
Morning stiffness
Reduced range of motion
Pain that improves with gentle movement
A grinding or creaking sensation in the joint
Bursitis
Bursitis happens when the bursae (small cushioning sacs) become inflamed. Trochanteric bursitis causes pain on the outer hip that may travel down the thigh.
This pain often worsens after:
Long walks
Standing for long periods
Sleeping on the affected side
Tendonitis or Muscle Strain
Overuse or sudden movement can irritate the tendons arou
