Hip Pain: Osteopathic Evaluation and Treatment

Hip pain is a common complaint seen across all age groups, often limiting mobility and impacting work, exercise, and daily comfort. Because the hip is a major weight-bearing joint that connects the lower limbs to the spine and pelvis, even minor dysfunction can create widespread strain throughout the lower back, knees, and gait mechanics. At a practice specializing in Osteopathic Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine, we provide comprehensive evaluation and hands-on treatment for hip pain, addressing not only the joint itself but also the surrounding structures that contribute to balance and motion.

Understanding Hip Pain

The hip joint is a deep, stable ball-and-socket joint responsible for supporting body weight and providing smooth movement during walking, sitting, and physical activity. Pain in this area may develop gradually from overuse or postural strain, or it may follow a specific injury. It can be localized to the groin, outer hip, or buttock and may radiate to the thigh, leg, foot, or lower back.

Common conditions associated with hip pain include bursitis, tendinitis, labral tears, arthritis, joint impingement, and muscular tightness or weakness. Because the hip functions as part of an integrated system with the pelvis, sacrum, and lumbar spine, Osteopathic physicians evaluate the entire body structure to identify the mechanical and neurological connections driving pain and restriction.

Common Causes and Contributing Factors

Hip pain may arise from several contributing factors, including:

• Muscular imbalance or weakness around the pelvis and lower back.

• Postural dysfunction or uneven weight distribution.

• Overuse injuries from repetitive motion or athletic activity.

• Degenerative joint changes such as arthritis or labral wear.

• Trauma, falls, or direct impact to the hip.

• Chronic tissue restriction in the lower extremity from distant ankle sprains and strains.

• Leg length discrepancies or pelvic tilt.

When motion becomes restricted within the hip or surrounding joints, compensatory strain often develops elsewhere—frequently affecting gait, spinal alignment, and overall stability. Osteopathic treatment addresses these relationships to restore coordinated and efficient movement.

Who Is Affected

Hip pain affects a broad population, including athletes, older adults, and individuals with sedentary occupations. Prolonged sitting, repetitive physical activity, or biomechanical imbalance can lead to progressive discomfort or stiffness. In pregnancy and during the postpartum period, hormonal and postural changes may also lead to hip or pelvic pain. Without proper evaluation, minor dysfunctions can progress into chronic pain or secondary issues involving the knees or lower back.

The Role of Osteopathic Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine

Osteopathic Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine offers a diagnostic and therapeutic approach that views hip pain in the context of whole-body function. Osteopathic Physicians (DOs) trained in this specialty assess joint mechanics, muscle tone and balance, and neural influence throughout the pelvis, spine, and lower extremities to determine the underlying cause of pain.

Treatment involves gentle, targeted manual techniques such as soft tissue manipulation, muscle energy treatment, myofascial release, joint mobilization, and balanced ligamentous tension. By improving mechanics and mobility in the hips, sacrum, and lumbar spine, Osteopathic treatment enhances circulation, reduces strain on surrounding tissues, and supports long-term function.

This hands-on, integrative approach complements rehabilitation, exercise therapy, and medical management by promoting balanced biomechanics and aiding recovery from chronic or acute conditions.

Seeking Care for Chronic or Recurrent Hip Pain

When hip pain persists or interferes with regular activity, an Osteopathic evaluation can help identify the root cause and guide effective treatment. Addressing mechanical restrictions early prevents compensatory problems and supports lasting relief and improved mobility. Many patients report greater comfort, flexibility, and confidence in movement following Osteopathic care.

Our practice specializes in the evaluation and treatment of hip pain using a comprehensive, patient-centered approach. If you are experiencing discomfort, stiffness, or limitation in your hip, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Levi. Through detailed assessment and gentle, hands-on treatment, we can help you restore hip mechanics, improve pain, and regain optimal movement and function.