By EKalman August 15, 2023 - 12:30am

Taking OTC anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, as part of at-home therapy for painful urination is common.

A doctor may frequently advise a patient to drink extra water because this dilutes urine and makes it easier to pass. Most symptoms can be relieved by resting and taking medications as indicated.

The Diagnosis
When you tell your doctor that your hip hurts, they should first establish that it is the source of your pain. Women may complain of hip discomfort, but what they mean is a pain in the side of the upper thigh or upper buttock, or they may be suffering from lower back pain. Hip discomfort is frequently felt in the groin or on the outside of the hip, right above the hip joint (a ball-and-socket joint).

Causes of Hip Pain in Women
When a female patient complains of hip pain, the doctor considers her age, build, and activity level. The cause will change depending on whether the patient is a skinny 20-year-old runner or a hefty, inactive 80-year-old grandmother.

The following are some of the most common causes of hip pain in women:
1. Arthritis. Women's chronic hip pain is frequently caused by arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, the wear-and-tear type that affects many people as they age. The ball-and-socket joint begins to deteriorate. Because of joint stiffness or swelling, arthritis pain is frequently felt in the front of the thigh or the groin.

2. Hip fractures. Hip fractures are common in older women, particularly those who have osteoporosis (low bone density). Pain when straightening, lifting, or standing on your leg is one of the symptoms of a hip fracture. In addition, the toes on your affected side will appear to turn out, which might help your doctor make a preliminary diagnosis.

3. Tendinitis and bursitis. Many tendons connect the muscles to the hip joint. If you misuse your tendons or engage in rigorous activities, they can easily get inflamed. The iliotibial band syndrome is one of the most prevalent causes of hip tendinitis, particularly in runners. The iliotibial band is a thick band of tissue that runs from the outer rim of your pelvis to the outside of your knee.

Bursitis is another major cause of hip discomfort in women. Bursae are fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bony section of the hip that is close to the surface. These sacs, like the tendons, can become inflamed as a result of irritation or misuse, causing pain anytime you move the hip joint.

4. Hernia. Femoral and inguinal hernias in the groin area, often known as sports hernias, can induce anterior (frontal) hip pain in women. Because of the increased pressure on the abdominal wall, pregnant women are more prone to inguinal hernias.

5. Back and gynecological problems. Gynecological issues can cause hip pain in women. It is critical not to presume that the pain is due to arthritis, bursitis, or tendinitis. The discomfort in your hip could be caused by another system, depending on your age and other health concerns.

Endometriosis (the growth of tissue identical to uterine lining tissue outside the uterus) can cause pelvic soreness, which some women report as hip pain. Back and spine pain can also be felt in the buttocks and hip. Sciatica, or a pinched nerve, usually affects one side of the body and causes pain in the back of the right or left hip – sciatica pain can begin in your lower back and extend down to your buttocks and legs.

Treatment Options for Hip Pain
Treatment for hip pain varies according to the diagnosis; however, pain caused by overuse or sports injuries is commonly treated with heat, rest, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicine. To avoid injuries, stretch before exercising and wear appropriate gear, especially good running shoes.

If particular activities or usage are causing hip pain, discontinue them and consult with your doctor. Excess weight can put a strain on the hip joint; therefore, decreasing weight can bring relief and help you avoid further complications. Some hip pain reasons, such as fractures or hernias, may necessitate surgical correction. If your hip pain continues, consult your doctor about possible reasons and treatments.