Mercy's Dr. John-Paul Rue Discusses Hip Pain, Its Causes And Treatment

More women experience hip pain than men, doctors say. There are ways to relieve that pain, but first you have to determine the cause.

The most common causes of hip pain are arthritis, hip fractures, tendonitis and bursitis, a hernia and back problems.

Gynecological issues sometimes cause pain in the hip, which is why Mercy Medical Center’s Dr. John Paul Rue, a board certified orthopedic sports medicine surgeon specializing in arthroscopic repair of sports-related injuries, says it's important to pay attention to the discomfort and, if it persists, see a doctor.

There are a number of factors to consider, such as age, a patient's build and determining where and what kind of pain a woman is experiencing.

"We start by listening to the patient. The patient can tell you where they feel the pain. Pain that is felt in the groin area -- that's often coming from the hip joint itself. Pain that is more in the back or the side of the hip may be coming from something other than the hip joint or the tendons around the hip joint," Dr. Rue said.

Treatment for hip pain depends on the diagnosis. Discomfort related to overuse or sports injuries can be treated with heat, rest and over-the-counter medication.

Other issues, such as fractures or hernias, may need surgical repairs.

View Mercy sports medicine and orthopedics specialist Dr. John-Paul Rue’s interview regarding hip pain and its causes.