Hip Pain Conditions & Rehabilitation
Introduction
Hip pain is a common and often debilitating issue that can restrict your ability to walk, run, sleep comfortably, or perform basic daily tasks. Whether your discomfort is caused by tendon overload, joint wear-and-tear, or recovery from surgery, a structured, progressive rehabilitation plan is vital to rebuilding joint stability and restoring pain-free movement.
At Physio Solutions in Gorey, our expert physiotherapists provide thorough assessments and tailored rehabilitation plans to help you rebuild strength and return to the activities you love.
If you are experiencing hip-related issues, please see our dedicated guides below:
- Gluteal Tendinopathy (Hip Bursitis)
- Pain on the Outside of the Hip
- Pain Lying on Your Side
- Hip Arthritis & Morning Stiffness
- Groin Pain / Hip Flexor Injuries
- Hip Replacement Rehabilitation
- Lower Limb Strength & Rehab Classes
Gluteal Tendinopathy (Hip Bursitis)
Gluteal Tendinopathy Overview
Gluteal tendinopathy is one of the most common causes of pain on the outside of the hip. It is sometimes referred to as hip bursitis, although the underlying issue usually involves irritation of the gluteal tendons that attach to the hip. This condition is common in runners, walkers and people who spend long periods standing.
Symptoms of Gluteal Tendinopathy
Common symptoms include:
- pain on the outside of the hip
- pain when lying on the affected side
- pain when walking or climbing stairs
- discomfort after prolonged sitting
Why This Condition Develops
Gluteal tendinopathy often develops when the tendons around the hip are overloaded. This may occur due to:
- weakness in the hip muscles
- changes in activity levels
- prolonged standing or walking
- poor movement patterns
Physiotherapy Treatment
Physiotherapy treatment focuses on strengthening the muscles around the hip and improving movement control. Many patients benefit from progressing their strengthening programme in our small group lower limb rehabilitation classes, where exercises can be progressed safely in a gym environment.
Pain on the Outside of the Hip
Outside Hip Pain Overview
Pain on the outside of the hip is a very common complaint. The most frequent cause is irritation of the gluteal tendons, but other conditions may also contribute.
Possible Causes
- gluteal tendinopathy
- hip bursitis
- muscle weakness around the hip
- overuse from walking or running
Physiotherapy Treatment
Physiotherapy assessment can identify the specific cause and guide appropriate treatment. Strengthening exercises for the hip muscles are often an important part of recovery.
Pain Lying on Your Side
Pain Lying on Your Side at Night
Many people with hip pain notice discomfort when lying on their side, particularly at night. This symptom is commonly associated with irritation of the structures on the outside of the hip.
Common Causes
- gluteal tendinopathy
- hip bursitis
- pressure on irritated tendons during sleep
Physiotherapy Treatment
Physiotherapy treatment focuses on reducing tendon irritation and improving strength in the muscles supporting the hip.
Hip Arthritis & Morning Stiffness
Hip Arthritis Overview
Hip arthritis occurs when the cartilage within the hip joint gradually wears down over time. This can lead to pain, stiffness and reduced mobility. Although arthritis cannot be reversed, physiotherapy and exercise can significantly improve symptoms.
Symptoms of Hip Arthritis
- stiffness in the hip joint
- pain when walking
- reduced range of motion
- difficulty putting on shoes or socks
Stiff Hip in the Morning
Morning stiffness in the hip is often associated with joint irritation or arthritis. Many people notice that their hip feels stiff when they first get out of bed but gradually loosens with movement.
Physiotherapy Treatment
Strengthening the muscles around the hip helps support the joint and reduce strain. Regular exercise and physiotherapy treatment can help improve mobility and reduce stiffness. Patients with hip arthritis often benefit from structured strengthening programmes in our lower limb rehabilitation classes, where exercises can be progressed safely under physiotherapy supervision.
Groin Pain / Hip Flexor Injuries
Groin Pain Overview
Groin pain is a common problem in athletes and active individuals. It may develop gradually due to overload of the muscles around the hip and pelvis.
Symptoms of Groin Injury
- pain in the groin region
- pain when running or kicking
- discomfort with sudden movements
Groin Pain Running
Groin pain during running is often related to overload of the muscles around the hip and pelvis. Factors that may contribute include:
- rapid increases in training load
- reduced hip strength
- poor running mechanics
Physiotherapy Treatment
Physiotherapy rehabilitation focuses on restoring strength and stability in the muscles around the hip and pelvis. Treatment focuses on strengthening the hip muscles and improving movement patterns during running.
Hip Replacement Rehabilitation
Post-Operative Rehabilitation
Physiotherapy rehabilitation is essential following hip replacement surgery. Recovery progresses through stages including restoring movement, strengthening the surrounding muscles and gradually returning to normal activities.
What Rehabilitation Helps Restore:
- hip strength
- joint movement
- walking ability
- confidence during daily activities
Lower Limb Strength & Rehab Classes
Small Group Rehabilitation Classes
At Physio Solutions we offer small group rehabilitation classes designed to help patients progress their recovery in our rehabilitation gym. Classes are limited to four participants, allowing physiotherapists to supervise exercises closely while progressing strength safely. Strengthening the lower limb in a structured gym environment often allows patients to progress beyond what is possible in standard appointments.
Who These Classes Benefit
These classes are particularly helpful for patients recovering from:
- hip injuries
- gluteal tendinopathy
- hip arthritis
- groin injuries
- post-operative hip rehabilitation
Excellent Value
Our rehabilitation classes cost:
€140 for four one-hour sessions
This represents excellent value compared with €60 for a 30-minute physiotherapy appointment, while still allowing expert supervision and progression.