Common Symptoms of Hip Pain

• Pain in the front of the hip or groin

• Pain on the outside of the hip

• Deep aching within the hip joint

• Glute pain

• Pain when walking

• Pain while running

• Pain with squatting

• Pain when getting in and out of a car

• Pain sleeping on your side

• Hip stiffness

• Clicking or pinching sensations

• Pain that radiates into the thigh

What Causes Hip Pain?

Hip pain is often more complex than people realize.

The location of your pain doesn't always identify the true source of the problem.

Common causes include:

Hip Impingement (FAI)

Hip impingement occurs when the bones of the hip joint don't move together optimally, creating pinching sensations and irritation during movement.

Labral Irritation

The labrum is a ring of cartilage that helps stabilize the hip joint.

Labral injuries can contribute to:

• Groin pain

• Clicking

• Catching sensations

• Pain with prolonged sitting

• Pain during exercise

Gluteal Tendinopathy

Pain on the outside of the hip is commonly associated with irritation of the gluteal tendons.

This is especially common among runners, walkers, and active adults.

Hip Bursitis

Although many patients are told they have bursitis, the underlying issue is often tendon dysfunction or movement-related irritation rather than inflammation alone.

Muscle and Soft Tissue Dysfunction

Tight or overloaded muscles can contribute significantly to hip pain.

Commonly involved muscles include:

• Gluteus medius

• Gluteus minimus

• Piriformis

• Hip flexors

• Adductors

• Deep hip rotators

Referred Pain

Sometimes pain felt in the hip actually originates from the lower back, pelvis, SI joint, or surrounding structures.

This is why a thorough evaluation is so important.

Our Approach to Hip Pain Treatment

Every patient is different.

Your treatment plan is designed around your specific symptoms, movement patterns, and goals.

Dry Needling

Dry needling is one of our most effective treatments for hip pain.

Treatment may target:

• Gluteal muscles

• Piriformis

• Hip flexors

• Adductors

• Deep hip stabilizers

Many patients notice immediate improvements in mobility and pain levels following treatment.

Focused Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is particularly helpful for chronic tendon injuries and stubborn hip pain that has not responded to traditional treatment.

Common conditions treated include:

• Gluteal tendinopathy

• Chronic lateral hip pain

• Tendon-related hip injuries

• Scar tissue and adhesions

Shockwave stimulates the body's natural healing response and promotes tissue remodeling.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture can help reduce pain, improve circulation, decrease muscle tension, and support recovery.

Chiropractic Care

The hip works closely with the pelvis, SI joints, lower back, and surrounding structures.

When appropriate, treatment may include improving mobility and movement throughout these areas.

Corrective Exercise

Long-term success often depends on improving strength, stability, and movement patterns.

We'll provide personalized recommendations designed to support your recovery and reduce recurrence.

Hip Pain During Pregnancy and Postpartum

Hip pain is extremely common during pregnancy and after delivery.

Changes in posture, ligament laxity, muscle imbalances, and altered movement patterns can place additional stress on the hips and pelvis. Learn more about how our team can support you during pregnancy here!

Our team frequently helps prenatal and postpartum patients manage:

• Lateral hip pain

• Glute pain

• Pelvic discomfort

• SI joint pain

• Pregnancy-related sciatica

Why Patients Choose OC Well Studio

We take a comprehensive approach to hip pain.

Rather than simply chasing symptoms, we evaluate how the hips, pelvis, lower back, muscles, tendons, and movement patterns work together.

Many patients come to us after months or years of unsuccessful treatment and are surprised to discover contributing factors that had previously been overlooked.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can dry needling help hip pain?

Yes. Dry needling is often highly effective for muscular hip pain, glute pain, hip impingement symptoms, and tendon-related conditions.

Can shockwave therapy help hip pain?

Shockwave therapy can be particularly beneficial for chronic tendon injuries and stubborn hip pain that has failed to improve with rest, stretching, or traditional treatment.

How do I know if my hip pain is coming from my back?

Many conditions can mimic hip pain. During your evaluation, we'll determine whether the primary source appears to be the hip itself, the lower back, or surrounding structures.

How many visits will I need?

The answer depends on the severity and duration of symptoms, your diagnosis, and your goals. Many patients notice meaningful improvements within the first few visits.

Conditions Related to Hip Pain

We commonly treat patients experiencing:

• Hip impingement

• Labral irritation

• Gluteal tendinopathy

• Greater trochanteric pain syndrome

• Piriformis syndrome

• Hip flexor strains

• Adductor strains

• Running injuries

• Pickleball injuries

• Sciatica-like symptoms

• Pregnancy-related hip pain

Schedule Your Consultation

If hip pain is limiting your ability to exercise, sleep comfortably, care for your family, or enjoy daily life, we'd love to help.

Serving Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Irvine, Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, and Orange County.