Hip pain can be felt in the side of the hip, the buttock, the groin or the thigh. It may come from the hip joint, the muscles and tendons around it, or from the lower back and sacroiliac joint.

Working out which one is involved decides the treatment, so assessment comes first.

Practitioner assessing a patient’s hip

Common causes

  • Gluteal tendon irritation on the outside of the hip
  • Tight or weak hip flexors and gluteals
  • Hip joint stiffness or early wear
  • Referred pain from the lower back or sacroiliac joint
  • Overload from running, kicking or heavy lifting

How we treat it

Treatment may include joint mobilisation, soft tissue therapy, dry needling and shockwave for tendon problems, along with strength and mobility exercises. We also review training volume, footwear and how you load the hip in daily life.

For runners and kicking sports

Hip and groin problems are often load-related. We help you adjust training rather than stop altogether, and set milestones for getting back to full sessions.

What to expect at your first visit

The first appointment is 45 minutes. See what happens at your first visit.

  • A conversation about what happened, what makes it better or worse, and what you want to get back to
  • A hands-on examination of the painful area and the joints and muscles around it
  • A clear explanation of what we find and what we recommend, including how long it may take
  • Treatment at the first visit when it is appropriate, plus exercises to take home