Why does my hip hurt as I get older?
Understanding hip pain in later life and how a physiotherapist helps an older person move more comfortably.
M. Thurairaj, MAHPC-registered physiotherapist reviewWhy hips get sore with age
Hip pain becomes more common in later life. Wear in the joint, weak muscles around the hip, and years of use all play a part.
The pain is often felt in the groin, the outer hip, or down toward the thigh. It can be worse getting up, walking, or turning in bed at night.
Stiffness and a shorter, more careful stride are common. It can make an older person nervous about falling.
Understanding what is driving the pain often helps a person feel calmer about it. With the right, steady work, many older adults move and rest more comfortably than they expected.
How a physiotherapist helps
A physiotherapist assesses the hip, the muscles around it, and how the person walks and rises, to understand what is driving the pain.
Treatment usually works on easing stiffness, strengthening the muscles that support the hip, and improving balance and safe walking. Comfortable ways to sleep and rise are part of it.
Everyday goals guide the plan, such as walking to the bathroom, getting out of a chair, or managing the step at the door.
Staying steady and safe
Hip pain and weakness can raise the risk of a fall, so safety is part of the work. A physiotherapist looks at balance and at the home itself.
Good lighting, a clear path, a firm chair, and grab support where needed can all make daily life safer.
Building strength and confidence often helps the person move more freely, which in turn keeps the hip and legs stronger.
When to see a doctor
Some hip pain needs a doctor rather than exercise. Pain after a fall, being unable to stand or bear weight, or a leg that looks turned or shortened needs urgent medical care, as it can mean a fracture.
A hip that is hot, very swollen, with a fever, or sudden severe pain, also needs prompt review.
We watch for these signs and help the person get the right care when they appear.
Ask about hip pain
If hip pain is making it harder for an older family member to walk, sleep or rise from a chair, send us a short message about how it affects their day, and we will explain how we would help.
Common questions
What usually causes hip pain in older people?
Common causes include wear in the joint, weakness in the muscles around the hip, and general stiffness with age. The pain is often felt in the groin or outer hip. A physiotherapist assesses what is driving it and builds a plan to ease movement and comfort.
Can physiotherapy help hip pain without surgery?
For many older adults, yes. Easing stiffness, strengthening the supporting muscles, and improving balance often reduces pain and makes daily life easier. If the joint is severely worn or surgery is needed, we are honest and help you know when to see a doctor.
When is hip pain an emergency?
Seek urgent care if hip pain follows a fall, if the person cannot stand or bear weight, or if a leg looks turned outward or shortened, as these can mean a fracture. A hot, very swollen hip with a fever also needs prompt medical review.
Talk through the situation
If hip pain is making it harder for an older family member to walk, sleep or rise from a chair, send us a short message about how it affects their day, and we will explain how we would help.