Question 1

What are the most common causes of hip pain?

Accepted Answer

The most common causes are femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), hip dysplasia, hip osteoarthritis (coxarthrosis), labral tears and tendon problems such as gluteal or iliopsoas tendinopathy. The exact cause depends on age, activity level and the location of the pain.

Question 2

Where can hip pain come from: groin, buttock or outer side?

Accepted Answer

Pain in the groin often points to FAI, hip osteoarthritis or a labral tear. Pain on the outer side usually indicates trochanteric bursitis or gluteus medius tendinopathy. Pain at the back can come from hamstring tendinopathy or referred pain from the lower back.

Question 3

When should I consult a specialist for hip pain?

Accepted Answer

Consult a hip specialist if pain lasts longer than 6 weeks, if you have nocturnal pain, hip blocking, sudden loss of function, or if the pain affects your daily activities or sleep.

Question 4

Is surgery always needed for hip pain?

Accepted Answer

No. At the European Hip Center, 77% of our patients avoid surgery. We always start with a conservative pathway (exercise therapy, Hip Coach guidance, possibly infiltrations) and only consider surgery if this approach is insufficient.

Question 5

Which examinations are needed to diagnose hip pain?

Accepted Answer

A diagnosis starts with a clinical examination by a hip specialist, complemented by imaging. Depending on the suspicion this includes X-ray, MRI with contrast (MR arthrography) or CT scan. Sometimes a diagnostic infiltration is useful to confirm the source of pain.

Hip pain, causes and treatment.

When should you consult a specialist?

Two pathways, always tailored to you.

Rehabilitation & exercise therapy

Muscle-sparing hip surgery

Would you like your hip examined?