The 4 Most Common Types of Hip Pain and What They May Mean

By Dr Rob Hutchings D.C.

Hip pain isn’t always easy to pin down. For some people, it sits deep in the groin. For others, it lingers on the outside of the hip or spreads into the buttock. It can even feel like it’s coming from the lower back.

Because the hip works closely with the pelvis and spine, discomfort in one area can sometimes reflect changes somewhere else. That’s why taking a broader view often helps when trying to understand what might be contributing to your symptoms.

Below are four common patterns of hip pain that people often experience.

Muscle and Tendon-Related Hip Pain (Strain or Tendinopathy)

This type of discomfort often develops after activity, overuse, or long periods in the same position. It may feel tight, sore, or achy, especially when moving or stretching.

In some cases, these symptoms may be linked to changes in how the pelvis or lower back are functioning. When this happens, supporting movement, strength, and coordination may help improve how the area feels over time.

People who run, train at the gym, or sit for extended periods often notice this type of pain. Approaches that focus on movement, strength, and overall balance may be considered as part of a care plan.

Outer Hip Pain (Often Labelled “Bursitis”)

Pain on the outside of the hip is quite common. It may feel more noticeable when lying on that side or when walking up hills or stairs.

While this is often described as bursitis, it may also involve the surrounding tendons or soft tissues. The area can feel tender to touch, and the discomfort may travel slightly down the outer thigh.

This pattern is often seen in active individuals and women over 40. Improving how the hip moves and strengthening the surrounding muscles may help reduce strain in the area and support better function.

Deep Groin Pain (Hip Joint or Structural Problems)

Pain felt deep in the groin can sometimes be linked to the hip joint itself. This may include changes such as irritation within the joint, early wear, or reduced movement over time.

Some people notice stiffness in the morning, discomfort when getting in and out of the car, or a feeling of clicking or restriction during movement.

In certain situations, imaging may be suggested to better understand what is happening within the joint. Depending on the findings, a combination of movement-based care, lifestyle adjustments, and other helpful approaches may be discussed.

Referred Hip Pain From the Lower Back

Not all hip pain begins in the hip. At times, the lower back may contribute to discomfort that is felt in the side of the hip, buttock, groin, or outer thigh.

This can happen when movement patterns or sensitivity in the lower back affect nearby structures. Some people notice their symptoms change with sitting, bending, or lifting, while others feel the pain shift from one area to another.

Looking at how the spine and pelvis are working together may help provide more context and guide a more complete approach to care.

Why Identifying the Source Matters

Hip pain can feel similar on the surface, but the underlying contributors are often different. Understanding where your discomfort may be coming from can help shape a more suitable plan moving forward.

Taking the time to assess movement, lifestyle factors, and how different areas of the body interact can offer valuable insight. For many people, clarity is the first step towards feeling more confident about what to do next.