Understanding Hip Pain in Runners: Causes and Chiropractic Management
Running is a popular way to support fitness, manage weight, and relieve stress. However, those who enjoy running frequently may encounter hip pain that can interfere with their training or daily routines. As local chiropractors serving the Lake Wylie, South Carolina community, we see a range of hip pain complaints from recreational runners. It is important to understand the underlying causes of hip pain to guide effective care and long-term joint health.
Hip pain in runners is generally grouped into two main categories: intra-articular pain, which originates within the hip joint itself, and extra-articular pain, which occurs outside of the joint. Recognizing the difference allows for more accurate diagnosis and helps determine the most appropriate treatment approaches.
Intra-articular hip pain commonly results from osteoarthritis and labral tears. Osteoarthritis is a condition where the protective cartilage in the joint wears down over time. It is more frequently seen in older adults, but it can also develop from long-term participation in sports or weight-bearing occupations. Chiropractic physicians are equipped to identify and manage hip osteoarthritis, supporting patients from the initial signs of discomfort to more advanced stages of the disease. When wear progresses to the point where the bones within the joint come into direct contact, joint replacement is typically required.
Labral tears, another significant source of intra-articular hip pain, can be more challenging to detect because the labrum—a ring of cartilage that lines the socket of the hip joint—cannot be visualized on standard x-rays. Diagnostic imaging such as MRI may be necessary to confirm the presence of a tear. When a labral tear is identified, management focuses on restoring range of motion and flexibility while correcting muscle imbalances that may contribute to ongoing discomfort.
Extra-articular hip pain is often associated with bursitis, an inflammation of the bursa. The bursa is a fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between tissues such as muscle, tendons, and bone. In the hip, there are several bursae that can become inflamed, most notably the bursa located at the greater trochanter near the outer hip, at the ischial tuberosity in the area commonly referred to as the “sitting bones,” and at the iliopectineal bursa situated in the front of the hip and under the hip flexor muscle. Bursitis can impede hip movement and cause significant discomfort during or after running.
Chiropractic care for bursitis may include manual therapy to address soft tissue restrictions, physical therapy modalities to reduce inflammation, and guidance on modifying activity levels. Patients are often instructed on the use of ice massage and appropriate home-based exercises to aid recovery.
Careful evaluation is essential, as issues in the lower back, pelvis, sacrum, buttocks, and lower extremities can also contribute to hip pain. A comprehensive chiropractic approach considers all these factors to develop a personalized care plan. The primary goal for runners experiencing hip pain is to decrease discomfort and restore full function, allowing a safe and timely return to running and daily activities.
This information is for general education only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace medical advice. Individual needs and conditions vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your specific situation.