The three main joints of concern in distance running -- the ankle, the knee and the hip -- have to absorb the shock of some 700 or 800 footfalls per mile on each side. As a result, a host of physical problems may arise in any of these locations. Injuries to the hip from running may be muscular, neurological or involve the connective tissues in this complex ball-and-socket joint.
Piriformis Syndrome
Piriformis syndrome is caused by a small muscle beneath the gluteals, called the piriformis, becoming overly tight or inflamed and impinging on the large sciatic nerve that passes through the area. This problem is usually seen in older, high-mileage runners. The repetitive stress of running produces tightening, swelling and pain in the hip that is usually on one side. The pain may radiate to other parts of the leg. Treatment includes rest, massage, physical therapy and the use of anti-inflammatory drugs as directed by your doctor.
Iliotibial Band Syndrome
The iliotibial band, or ITB, is a fibrous swath of tissue that runs from the top of the hip bone to the outside of the knee. It is a common cause of pain in the hip, butt and knee. The ITB helps keep the pelvis level during the float phase of the running stride and assists the quads in extending the leg. Running in circles in the same direction or on uneven terrain can lead to tightness and pain on the affected side. Avoid roads that slope toward the edge, too many hills or dozens of laps in the same direction on a track.
Osteitis Pubis
Osteitis pubis is inflammation at one or both of the sites where the pubic bones meet, on either side of the middle of your pubic bone and a couple of inches below your navel. The resulting pain can radiate to your thighs, abdomen and hips. Pain usually sets in gradually, and once it is present it may be either sharp or dull. Osteitis pubis usually occurs as a result of a an imbalance in your running gait, especially if your training mileage is increasing or high. Ice, rest, strengthening exercises and stretching are the mainstays of treatment, and full healing may take a number of months.
Bursitis
A bursa is a fluid-filled sac in a joint that reduces friction between the moving parts of the joint. According to the Sports Injury Clinic, the trochanteric bursa of the hip socket is the most common site of bursitis in the body. It is caused by the repetitive sliding of muscles and tendons over the bursa and is therefore usually an overuse injury. Treatment consists of rest and icing. When you are able to begin running comfortably again, keep to flat surfaces until you are certain that the bursitis has resolved completely.
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