Hip pain is a common issue affecting people of all ages. In fact, studies show that up to one in seven older adults experience significant hip pain on most days. Regardless of age, hip pain can interfere with everyday activities like walking, standing, and even sleeping, reducing quality of life. Fortunately, accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment can help alleviate pain and restore mobility.
Common Causes of Hip Pain
Hip pain can stem from several underlying conditions, including:
Hip Abductor Weakness – Weak gluteal muscles can lead to instability, increased strain on the hip joint, and pain over time.
Piriformis Syndrome – Tightness or irritation of the piriformis muscle can compress the sciatic nerve, causing pain in the hip and down the leg.
Gluteal Tendinopathy / Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) – Overuse or strain of the tendons surrounding the hip can result in chronic lateral hip pain.
Osteoarthritis – Wear and tear of the hip joint cartilage can lead to stiffness, discomfort, and reduced range of motion.
Labral Tears – Damage to the cartilage ring surrounding the hip socket can cause deep pain and clicking sensations.
Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) – Abnormal bone growth can lead to joint irritation and pain, particularly in young adults.
How We Diagnose Hip Pain
Proper diagnosis is key to developing an effective treatment plan. At Boulder Sports Chiropractic, we take a comprehensive approach to understanding the root cause of your hip pain. Our diagnostic process includes:
1. Patient History
We start by asking detailed questions about your symptoms, including:
When did the pain start?
Was it triggered by an injury or did it develop gradually?
Where exactly do you feel the pain?
Is the pain worse in the morning or after activity?
Do you have any history of arthritis, osteoporosis, or other health conditions?
2. Physical Examination
A hands-on exam helps us assess movement patterns and pinpoint the source of discomfort. We evaluate:
Range of Motion – Testing hip flexibility and movement restrictions.
Muscle Strength – Checking for weakness in key hip stabilizing muscles.
Joint Stability – Assessing for signs of instability or excessive motion.
Gait Analysis – Watching how you walk to identify imbalances or compensations.
3. Lumbosacral Assessment
Surprisingly, about 71% of hip issues originate from the lower back. We assess the spine to rule out referred pain from the lumbar region.
How We Treat Hip Pain
At Boulder Sports Chiropractic, we use a combination of advanced therapies to relieve pain, improve mobility, and prevent future injuries. Our treatment options include:
1. Chiropractic Adjustments
Gentle spinal and hip joint adjustments help improve mobility, reduce stiffness, and correct misalignments that may contribute to pain.
2. Active Release Techniques (ART) & Myofascial Release
Manual therapy techniques target tight muscles and adhesions, improving flexibility and reducing tension around the hip.
3. Dry Needling
Dry needling helps relieve muscle tightness, reduce inflammation, and promote healing in irritated tissues.
4. Shockwave Therapy
This non-invasive treatment stimulates tissue repair and reduces chronic pain associated with conditions like gluteal tendinopathy.
5. Class IV Laser Therapy
Laser therapy promotes circulation, accelerates healing, and reduces inflammation in soft tissues surrounding the hip.
6. Rehabilitation Exercises
Strengthening weak hip muscles and improving mobility through guided exercises is essential for long-term relief. We incorporate:
Gluteal Strengthening – Side-lying hip raises, banded walks, and bridges.
Hip Mobility Drills – Controlled leg swings and deep hip stretches.
Core Stability Work – Planks and controlled lower-body movements to enhance support for the hip.
7. Posture & Movement Training
We analyze your movement patterns and provide guidance on proper walking, running, and sitting postures to reduce strain on the hip.
When to Seek Professional Care
If you’re experiencing persistent hip pain that interferes with daily activities, it’s time to seek professional care. At Boulder Sports Chiropractic, we specialize in diagnosing and treating hip pain using evidence-based techniques tailored to your specific needs.
Don't let hip pain hold you back—schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward lasting relief!