Jogging can help you keep fit and strengthens your cardiovascular system, but it can also leave you susceptible to running-related injuries. If you feel hip pain while jogging, it could be caused by any of a number of problems. While some hip problems are short term, like an injury, others may be permanent. Talk with your doctor to discuss your hip pain and to find out if jogging is the right form of exercise for you.
Symptoms
Different people experience jogging hip pain in different ways. For some, it will be a constant throbbing that doesn't seem to go away after a jog. Others experience a stabbing pain. If your hip pain begins suddenly, it is the result of an injury. Take note of the timing, location and severity of pain so you can talk to your doctor to precisely pinpoint the cause.
Causes
Hip pain while jogging can have a number of causes, which is why it's important that you talk to your doctor. If you experience sudden pain, you could have pulled a muscle in your hip or groin area. Constant, throbbing pain could be a sign of an overuse injury or a condition like tendinitis. If your hip pain has been getting progressively worse, you may be diagnosed with a condition like osteoarthritis or sciatica.
Treatment
If you feel pain while running, stop immediately. Running while you have an injured hip could make the problem worse. For the first 48 hours, ice your hip to numb persistent pain, after which you can try applying heat to soothe aches. If your pain doesn't go away after two hours, make an appointment with your doctor in case you're suffering from a serious injury.
Prevention
Stretching before a jog can help prevent injuries like a sprained muscle or tendon in your hip. Always start your jogs slowly, working up to a faster pace as your hip allows. Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever can help relieve mild pain during and after your jog. If hip pain is a constant component of your jogs, your hip may not be able to sustain such a high-impact exercise. Switch to running on an elliptical for the same fitness benefits without the impact on your sore hip.
