Hip Pain

As you age normal wear and tear can cause hip problems to emerge, often with no apparent or injury. Most hip issues settle down within 6 weeks.

Facts & Figures:

• Hip problems are more common in women
• Wear and tear is a common cause of hip pain, especially in the over 40’s

When to get advice:

• Your leg is not weight bearing.
• If you have swelling or pain around your testicles.
• Pain that gets worse and worse.
• A lump in your groin regions- this could be a hernia.
• Your pain is not improving after 6 weeks.

Move or rest?

First 24 hours

• Rest your hip but try to avoid long periods of not moving.
• If possible, move your hip for 10/20 seconds while you’re awake.

After 48 hours

• Until you have less discomfort avoid heavy lifting or strenuous sports.
• Lead with your good leg when going upstairs – this may reduce the strain. If you have a handrail use it for support.
• If you are going downstairs, lead with your problem leg to reduce the stain. If you have a handrail, use it for support.
• Try to increase the use of your leg gradually, gentle exercise can really help your hip and relieve the pain.
• Keep up your everyday activities where possible, this is a good way to get better.