Hip pain while exercising is usually due to a strain of the muscles, tendons or ligaments in the hip joint. If the pain is fleeting, you may want to ignore it for now, but keep a close watch to see if you have another flare-up in your hips. Chronic hip pain should prompt a call to your doctor and an evaluation, which could result in you amending your exercise routine to help alleviate some of that hip pain.
Hip Pain and Running
Several factors can lead runners or physically active people who happen to do some running to have hip pain. Sources of pain can range from muscle imbalance, poor support in your running shoes and a difference in the length of your legs to actual mechanical problems with your running stride. If you notice hip pain while exercising, look for obvious clues and pay attention to the conditions that bring on pain and help it subside, so you can share that information with your doctor. Strained muscles and tendons in the hips are not uncommon, particularly among runners, so be aware that it may just take a tweak in your running shoes and running style to have you back exercising pain free.
Bursitis
In various parts of your body you have small fluid-filled sacs called bursae, which act as cushions between muscles, tendons and bones. Inflammation of these bursae is common, particularly in one or both hips. The Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City notes that prolonged use or overuse of the hip joint in exercise or other physical activity can exacerbate the discomfort associated with the condition. Rest, ice and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may relieve some of the discomfort. But you may need some physical therapy to learn stretching exercises that will diminish the hip pain when you start exercising again.
Treatment
If you encounter hip pain while exercising, avoid the exercise or activity that caused the pain and take a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen. If possible, avoid sleeping on the side where you're experiencing hip pain.
Round Ligament Pain
Pregnant women may encounter pain in their hips due to a condition called round ligament pain. The pain is due to a stretching and stressing of the round ligament that connects the uterus to the groin. It's most common during the second trimester of pregnancy, and can result from exercise or activity as minor as standing up from a seated position or even coughing. Doctors usually recommend rest, as the pain should only last a few seconds. Pain in your hips or abdomen that lasts for several minutes should be evaluated by your healthcare provider promptly.
