Understanding Hip Pain: Common Causes and When to See a Specialist in Plano, TX

Your hips do a lot of work every day — from walking and bending to running and sitting. When they start to ache, it can affect nearly everything you do. Hip pain is common among both active adults and older individuals, but the reasons behind it can vary widely.

At Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center, our team of fellowship-trained physicians specializes in diagnosing and treating hip pain so you can get back to moving comfortably again. Here’s what you need to know about the most common causes, when to seek help, and how modern treatments can make a difference.

Why Hip Pain Happens

The hip joint is one of the largest and most durable joints in the body, designed to handle years of wear and tear. But over time — or through injury — the structures that support your hip can become damaged or inflamed, leading to pain and stiffness.

Some of the most common causes include:

1. Hip Bursitis

Bursae are small fluid-filled sacs that cushion your hip joint. When they become irritated or inflamed, the result is hip bursitis, which causes sharp or burning pain on the outer side of the hip — especially when lying on that side or climbing stairs.

2. Osteoarthritis of the Hip

As cartilage wears down with age or overuse, the bones in your hip may start to rub together. This leads to osteoarthritis, which can cause pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. It’s one of the most common reasons patients visit POSMC for hip pain treatment in Plano.

3. Hip Labral Tear

The labrum is a ring of cartilage that stabilizes the hip joint. Repetitive motion, trauma, or structural issues can cause a labral tear, resulting in a deep ache or catching sensation in the groin area. Active adults and athletes are particularly prone to this type of injury.

4. Muscle or Tendon Strain

Overstretching or overusing the hip muscles can lead to strains that cause pain when walking, lifting, or standing. Runners and people who perform repetitive movements often experience this type of discomfort.

5. Avascular Necrosis (AVN)

Though less common, AVN occurs when the blood supply to the hip bone is reduced, leading to bone weakening and joint damage over time. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent long-term complications.

When to See a Hip Specialist

Occasional soreness after activity is normal, but persistent or worsening pain is not. It may be time to schedule an appointment with a hip specialist in Plano, TX, if you experience:

• Pain that lasts more than a few days or interferes with sleep

• Clicking, catching, or locking in the hip joint

• Difficulty walking, bending, or standing

• Swelling, redness, or warmth around the hip

• Pain radiating into your groin, thigh, or buttocks

The earlier you seek professional care, the better your chances of avoiding long-term damage and finding relief through conservative treatments.

How POSMC Diagnoses Hip Pain

At Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center, our specialists begin with a detailed exam, medical history, and imaging such as X-rays or MRIs to pinpoint the source of your pain. Because the hip is a complex joint, accurate diagnosis is key — whether it’s arthritis, bursitis, a labral tear, or another condition.

Advanced Treatment Options for Hip Pain

Your treatment plan will depend on the cause and severity of your condition, but many patients find relief with non-surgical methods, including:

• Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility

• Anti-inflammatory medications or injections to reduce pain and swelling

• Activity modification to prevent further irritation

For more advanced cases such as severe arthritis or AVN, our surgeons specialize in hip arthroscopy, labral repair, and total hip replacement, including the anterior approach for faster recovery and minimal downtime.

Why Choose POSMC for Hip Care

With decades of experience serving Plano, Frisco, McKinney, and the greater North Texas region, POSMC is a leader in comprehensive orthopedic care. Our fellowship-trained hip specialists use state-of-the-art technology and a patient-focused approach to help you:

• Identify the true source of hip pain

• Restore range of motion and stability

• Get back to the activities you love, pain-free

Whether you’re managing early signs of hip arthritis or recovering from a sports-related injury, we’ll guide you every step of the way — from diagnosis to recovery.

Take the First Step Toward Relief

If hip pain is slowing you down, don’t wait until it becomes severe. The specialists at Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center are here to help.

Serving patients in Plano, Frisco, McKinney, and all of North Texas.

Request an appointment today at POSMC.com