Hip Pain
Hip pain can make walking, sitting, and everyday movement uncomfortable and limiting. It can come on gradually from posture, muscle imbalance, or overuse, or appear suddenly after a fall, sports injury, or long run. At KIRO, our chiropractors focus on finding the root cause of your hip discomfort, improving joint motion, easing muscle tension, and guiding you through strength and movement strategies so you can stay active without chronic pain.
Why does hip pain occur?
Hip pain can stem from irritation in the joints, muscles, tendons, or nerves that support the hip and pelvis. Prolonged sitting, poor posture, or muscle imbalances can overload the hip joint and surrounding soft tissues. Overuse from running, heavy lifting, or sports may lead to inflammation or tendon strain, while sudden trauma like a fall can injure cartilage or ligaments. Sometimes pain in the hip is actually referred from the lower back or sacroiliac (SI) joint.
What are the common symptoms of hip pain?
Hip pain may feel like aching in the front, side, or back of the hip and can radiate into the groin, thigh, or buttock. Some people notice stiffness when standing up after sitting, clicking or popping with movement, or discomfort when walking, climbing stairs, or running. Pain may worsen after long periods of sitting or activity and sometimes feels sharp during twisting or deep bending.
Who is most at risk for getting hip pain?
Anyone who spends long hours sitting or has poor posture is more likely to develop hip pain because the muscles around the hips and pelvis become tight and weak. Runners, cyclists, and athletes who do repetitive hip motion can also overload the joint and surrounding tissues. Older adults face higher risk due to natural joint wear, arthritis, and reduced flexibility. Prior injuries, differences in leg length, and weak core or glute muscles can make the hips more vulnerable as well.
How do KIRO doctors treat hip pain?
At KIRO, care for hip pain starts with a detailed exam of your hips, lower back, and pelvis, plus a baseline Nervous System Scan to understand how the pain is affecting movement and nerve function.
Symptomatic phase (first few weeks): We focus on calming irritation and restoring safe joint motion. Our chiropractors use gentle adjustments to the hips, pelvis, and lower spine, along with soft-tissue therapy and mobility drills to reduce pain and improve flexibility. Activity modifications and simple stretches help offload irritated tissues.
Corrective phase (next 6–8 weeks): Care shifts toward strengthening the core, glutes, and deep hip stabilizers to improve alignment and reduce stress on the joint. We also coach proper movement patterns for walking, running, and lifting to prevent overload.
Preventive phase (ongoing): Periodic adjustments, progressive strengthening, and posture coaching keep the hips balanced and mobile to avoid flare-ups.
Monthly Nervous System Scans track your progress, and multiple doctors rotate in your care so you benefit from diverse expertise and the safest, most effective treatment plan.
How long does treatment take for hip pain?
Most people notice less pain and better mobility within the first few weeks of consistent care, especially as inflammation settles and movement improves. Rebuilding hip strength and stability typically takes another 6–8 weeks, depending on how long the problem has been present and how active you are with your exercises. Chronic or severe cases may take several months, but steady progress is expected when treatment and movement changes are followed closely.
What are the benefits of chiropractic care for hip pain?
Chiropractic care for hip pain provides several important benefits, including:
Faster pain relief and reduced joint irritation
Improved hip motion and flexibility for easier walking and bending
Better pelvic and spinal alignment to reduce strain on muscles and joints
Guided strengthening of core and glute muscles for long-term support
A non-drug, non-surgical approach to recovery
These benefits help you move with less discomfort, stay active, and lower the risk of future hip issues.
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