Hip pain is a common complaint that can affect people of all ages, from office workers and runners to gym-goers and active adults. Whether symptoms develop gradually or follow an injury, hip discomfort can make everyday activities such as walking, sitting, exercising, and sleeping increasingly difficult.

Many people assume hip pain is caused solely by the hip joint itself. However, the hips work closely with the lower back, pelvis, knees, and surrounding muscles, meaning symptoms are often influenced by how these areas move and function together.

At Freeman Chiropractic, we don't just focus on where the pain is felt. We assess how the hips, pelvis, lower back, and surrounding structures are functioning together to better understand the factors contributing to your symptoms.

Why do I have hip pain?

Hip pain can develop for many different reasons. While some cases are related to sporting injuries, falls, or sudden movements, many develop gradually due to repetitive strain, reduced mobility, or changes in movement patterns over time.

Common contributing factors seen in practice include:

Prolonged sitting and sedentary work
Reduced hip mobility
Previous lower back, pelvis, or lower limb injuries
Running and sporting loads
Repetitive movements at work
Muscle tension and overuse
Changes in walking or movement patterns
Reduced strength and stability around the hips

A common finding is that the area where symptoms are felt is not always the source of the problem. Restrictions through the lower back, pelvis, or surrounding muscles can influence how the hips move and function over time.

What is hip pain?

Hip pain refers to discomfort affecting the hip joint or surrounding muscles, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissues.

Symptoms can range from mild stiffness and irritation to more persistent pain that affects walking, exercise, work, and everyday activities.

Hip pain may be associated with muscle strain, joint irritation, reduced mobility, tendon-related issues, or age-related changes within the joint. Symptoms often develop when the hip is exposed to repeated stress or movement limitations over time.

What are the common types of hip pain?

Hip pain can present in different ways depending on the structures involved and the underlying contributing factors.

Lateral Hip Pain

Pain on the outside of the hip, often aggravated by walking, running, lying on the affected side, or prolonged activity.

Front of Hip Pain

Discomfort felt in the front of the hip or groin region, sometimes associated with movement restrictions or sporting activities.

Hip and Lower Back Pain

Pain that occurs around both the hip and lower back, often influenced by how the pelvis and lumbar spine are functioning together.

Hip Stiffness and Reduced Mobility

A feeling of restriction, tightness, or difficulty moving the hip through its normal range of motion.

Referred Pain

In some cases, symptoms felt around the hip may be influenced by structures in the lower back, pelvis, or surrounding muscles.

When should I see a chiropractor for hip pain?

You don't need to wait until symptoms become severe before seeking an assessment.

You may consider having your hip assessed if:

Pain keeps returning
Walking, running, or exercise has become uncomfortable
Stiffness is limiting your movement
Sleep is being affected
Symptoms are spreading into the lower back, groin, or leg
Daily activities are becoming more difficult
Symptoms are gradually worsening over time

Early assessment is often less about treating pain and more about understanding what may be contributing to ongoing strain and movement restrictions.

Hip pain is rarely influenced by one structure alone. It is often associated with how the hips, pelvis, lower back, and surrounding muscles are functioning together.

Chiropractic care focuses on assessing spinal, pelvic, and hip function, as well as identifying movement patterns that may be contributing to ongoing discomfort. When clinically appropriate, care may include gentle manual adjustments, soft tissue techniques, and movement-based recommendations aimed at improving mobility, reducing tension, and supporting overall function.

At our Victoria Park clinic, we focus on identifying these contributing factors and helping you move with greater comfort and confidence in everyday life.