Hip osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage in the hip joint gradually wears down, causing pain and stiffness. Early symptoms are often mild and easy to miss. You may notice stiffness when standing up or a dull ache in the groin. These signs can slowly worsen over time.

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS, 2022), a common early symptom is “start-up pain”—stiffness or discomfort when you first begin to move.

Common Early Symptoms

1. Groin or hip pain – Especially when walking, standing, or getting up

2. Start-up stiffness – Pain when you first move, then eases

3. Less flexibility – Trouble rotating your hip or spreading your legs

4. Clicking or grinding – Joint may feel or sound rough

5. Side hip pain – Worse when lying on one side or after long walks

🔹 Causes and Risk Factors 

• Increasing age, especially over 55 years old 

• Excess body weight, which increases pressure on the joint

• Abnormal hip structure, such as Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)

• Repetitive heavy use or lifting

• Previous hip injuries or accidents

🔹 Diagnosis & Evaluation

1. Physical exam – Doctor checks pain, movement, and flexibility

2. X-ray – Looks for joint narrowing or bone spurs

3. MRI / advanced imaging – Detects early joint and cartilage changes

🔹 When Should You See a Doctor? 

• Hip pain lasting longer than 2–4 weeks  

• Pain that interferes with sleep or walking  

• Reduced hip mobility  

• Grinding or catching sensation while walking  

• Side hip pain when lying down

🔹 Early Management & Prevention

•  Maintain a healthy weight

• Do regular exercises to strengthen hip muscles

• Stretch to keep your joints flexible

• Avoid long periods of sitting or squatting

• Consider physical therapy for proper guidance

At S Spine & Joint Hospital, our specialists use advanced treatments to help reduce pain, improve movement, and support your quality of life.