Hip Pain: What Causes It and How Physiotherapy in Calgary Can Help

Whether it’s a dull ache after sitting, sharp pain during a walk, or morning stiffness getting out of

bed, hip pain can significantly affect your quality of life. At our South Calgary

physiotherapy clinic, we focus on identifying the root cause—not just the symptoms—so you

can regain pain-free movement and avoid long-term issues.

Common Causes of Hip Pain in Adults

Hip pain may originate from the joint, surrounding muscles, tendons, nerves, or even referred

sources. At our Calgary physio clinic on MacLeod Trail, we most often treat:

1. Hip Osteoarthritis

Degenerative wear of the joint cartilage

Pain in the groin, thigh, or buttock, especially with weight-bearing

Morning stiffness that improves with gentle movement

2. Hip Bursitis

Inflammation of the bursa over the outer hip (greater trochanter)

Sharp or burning pain, especially when lying on the side or climbing stairs

3. Gluteal Tendinopathy

Overuse injury affecting gluteus medius/minimus tendons

Pain when standing on one leg or rising from sitting

Very common in adults over 40, especially women

4. Labral Tears

Damage to the cartilage rim of the hip socket

Clicking, locking, or deep joint pain during pivoting or squatting

5. Referred Pain from the Lower Back or SI Joint

Lumbar spine or sacroiliac dysfunction may mimic hip joint pain

A thorough physiotherapy assessment is essential to rule this out

6. Muscle Imbalance & Core Weakness

Weak glutes, tight hip flexors, and poor core control can overload hip joints

Often seen in runners, cyclists, and sedentary office workers

How Our Calgary Physiotherapists Treat Hip Pain

At 8989 MacLeod Trail SW, our physiotherapists provide personalized, evidence-based

treatment for acute and chronic hip conditions. Whether you’re an athlete, an office worker, or a

retiree, we’ll create a treatment plan tailored to your body and lifestyle.

1. Comprehensive Assessment

We analyze your posture, gait, hip range of motion, core stability, and functional movement

patterns to identify the true source of pain.

2. Manual Therapy

Hands-on techniques including joint mobilizations, soft tissue release, and myofascial therapy to

restore mobility and reduce muscle tension.

3. Therapeutic Exercise

Customized programs to:

• Activate glutes and core stabilizers

• Improve hip joint control and flexibility

• Enhance single-leg balance and load tolerance

4. Education & Movement Retraining

We guide you on modifying daily habits—like how to sit, walk, or climb stairs—to minimize

stress on the hip during recovery.

5. Rehabilitative Modalities

We may incorporate:

• Dry needling to release trigger points

• Taping or bracing for added support

Why Early Physiotherapy Makes a Difference

Delaying treatment can lead to compensatory movement patterns, further joint breakdown, or

secondary issues in the spine, knees, or pelvis. Early intervention promotes faster healing,

better outcomes, and fewer flare-ups.

Your Hip Pain Physio Experts in South Calgary

Conveniently located in Haysboro at 8989 MacLeod Trail SW, we serve patients from Acadia,

Kingsland, Fairview, and surrounding communities. We treat hip pain with a compassionate,

expert approach that prioritizes your long-term function and mobility.

Book Your Calgary Hip Assessment Today

Don’t let hip pain limit your steps. Our team at Panther Sports Medicine – MacLeod Trail is

here to help you move better, live stronger, and feel confident in your body again.

References

 Fearon AM, et al. (2014). Gluteal tendinopathy: clinical diagnosis and best practice

management. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther.

 Zhang W, et al. (2008). OARSI recommendations for the management of hip and knee

osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis Cartilage.

 Grimaldi A, Fearon A. (2015). Gluteal tendinopathy: integrating pathomechanics and

clinical features. Phys Ther Sport.

 Domb BG, et al. (2014). Diagnosis and management of labral tears in the hip. Sports

Health.