Running can help you lose weight, get fit, increase agility and build up endurance. But strenuous regimens or long-term engagement in the popular activity can bring about unwanted side effects. Abrupt or improper movement, as well as time-related wear, may result in hip injury and cause pain. Many different types of hip injuries are possible, and runners who develop intermittent or persistent hip pain should consult a physician. Treatment may vary depending on the diagnosis.
Muscle Strain and Tendinitis
Runners are prone to hip muscle strain and tendon inflammation, or tendinitis. These conditions could be induced through acute trauma. In the February 2005 issue of "Sports Medicine," Dr. Scott A. Paluska says "muscle strains and tendinitis are the most common etiologies of hip pain and typically result from sudden acceleration/deceleration maneuvers, direction changes or eccentric contractions." But tendinitis most often results from the "wear and tear" from performing the same movement over a significant period of time. Treatment for muscle strain and tendinitis can vary from simple rest to surgery, depending on localization and severity of the problem.
Bursitis
Inflammation of the bursa tissues surrounding hip joints could result in a painful condition called bursitis, which is often found in joints involved in repetitive motion. Paluska says that this condition is commonly seen in runners. The inflammatory pain often subsides with prolonged rest, but discomfort could reappear if running is resumed.
Labral Tear
Another hip injury that could result from running-related movement repetition is a labral tear, which could be induced by abrupt injury or structural hip abnormalities affecting the tissues surrounding the joints. While some hip labral tears could be asymptomatic, others could cause pain. Physical therapy or orthopedic procedures may help alleviate the problem.
Other Causes
Because of the complexity of the bone, muscle, nerve, and connective tissue of the hip region, numerous other causes could lead professional athletes and runners to experience hip pain. Hip osteoarthritis, nerve entrapment, and sports hernia are not uncommon. These conditions can cause persistent pain that gets exacerbated with running.
