Hip pain can limit your ability to walk, sit comfortably, exercise, or even sleep. At Coventry Back Pain Clinic, based on Park Road, we understand how frustrating and restrictive hip discomfort can be. Our experienced team takes the time to identify the root cause of your pain and deliver tailored, evidence-based treatment so you can move freely again.

Understanding the hip joint

The hip is one of the most robust and stable joints in the human body, designed to support body weight during both static and dynamic activities. It’s a ball-and-socket joint, where the head of the femur fits into the acetabulum of the pelvis. However, because of its wide range of motion and the complex network of muscles, tendons, and ligaments around it, the hip can develop pain from both local and referred sources, including the spine, sacroiliac joints, and surrounding soft tissues. Understanding these relationships is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Common mechanisms of hip pain

Clinically, hip pain is often divided into intra-articular (within the joint) and extra-articular (around the joint) causes. Intra-articular issues include osteoarthritis, labral tears, and impingement syndromes, while extra-articular causes commonly involve tendon irritation, bursitis, and muscular overload. Postural changes, repetitive strain, and weakness in the core or gluteal muscles can all alter hip mechanics, placing excess stress on certain structures. That’s why a comprehensive physical assessment, including movement screening and palpation, is key to determining the exact source of pain rather than just treating the symptoms.