Understanding Hip Pain
At Advanced Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Institute (AOSMI), patients often ask how to know what kind of hip pain they have. Hip discomfort can stem from many sources including the joint itself, surrounding muscles, tendons, or even the spine.
According to Dr. Garret Sobol, “Pinpointing the source of hip pain is key. Where you feel the discomfort whether it is the front, side, or back helps guide an accurate diagnosis.”
1. The Location of Your Hip Pain Matters
Front (groin) pain: Often connected to the hip joint itself, such as arthritis, labral tears, or femoroacetabular impingement (FAI).
Side (lateral) pain: Commonly associated with tendon inflammation or bursitis around the greater trochanter.
Back (posterior) pain: May stem from the sacroiliac joint or lower spine rather than the hip joint.
Dr. Sobol explains, “When pain is deep in the groin, I consider the hip joint first. But if it’s on the outside or buttock area, I look to the surrounding soft tissues or back.”
2. What Is the Figure-4 (FABER) Test?
The Figure-4 test—also known as the FABER test (Flexion, Abduction, External Rotation)—is a clinical maneuver used to help identify whether pain originates in the hip or nearby joints.
During the test, a patient’s leg is positioned to form a “4” shape, with the ankle resting on the opposite thigh. Gentle pressure is applied to the bent knee. The location and intensity of pain can indicate whether the discomfort comes from the hip joint or the sacroiliac joint.
Dr. Sobol notes, “If the pain is in the groin, it often involves the hip joint. If it’s more in the lower back or buttock, we consider the sacroiliac area.”
3. Can Hip Pain Cause Knee Pain?
It may surprise many patients to learn that hip problems can sometimes cause knee pain. The hip and knee work together as part of a kinetic chain, meaning movement or weakness in one area can influence the other.
When hip muscles are weak or tight, or when hip arthritis alters how you walk, additional stress can be placed on the knee joint. Over time, this can lead to discomfort or pain around the knee.
Dr. Sobol emphasizes, “I often evaluate both the hip and knee, even if a patient complains of knee pain. Sometimes, the real source of pain is higher up.”
4. When to Seek an Evaluation
If hip or knee pain persists for more than a few weeks, interferes with daily activities, or limits mobility, a professional evaluation is recommended.
Evaluations may include a detailed discussion of symptoms, physical examination, and diagnostic imaging if needed. Early assessment helps identify the source of discomfort and guide personalized care options.
5. Preparing for Your Appointment
Tracking your symptoms can make your visit more effective. Before seeing an orthopaedic specialist, take note of:
- When and how your pain started.
- Movements or positions that increase discomfort.
- Whether pain radiates to your thigh or knee.
- Any stiffness, clicking, or popping sensations.
This information can help your provider understand patterns that may point to hip joint, muscle, or spine involvement.
FAQs About Hip Pain
Q: How can I tell if my hip pain is arthritis or a soft tissue issue?
A: Pain that feels deep and stiff in the groin may suggest arthritis. Pain on the outside or side of the hip may be more muscular or tendon-related.
Q: Should I try the Figure-4 test at home?
A: It’s best to let a clinician perform it during an evaluation. Doing it incorrectly can aggravate discomfort.
Q: Can hip pain really cause knee pain?
Yes, the hip controls leg alignment. Weakness or stiffness can shift pressure down to the knee joint.
Q: When should I see an orthopaedic surgeon?
A: If hip pain disrupts daily activity, sleep or exercise an evaluation can help determine next steps.
About Dr. Garret L. Sobol, MD, FAAOS
Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon | Fellowship-Trained in Sports Medicine
Dr. Garret Sobol is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon, fellowship-trained in sports medicine. He specializes in the treatment of sports-related injuries and degenerative conditions of the shoulder, elbow, hip, and knee.
His treatment philosophy prioritizes conservative, non-invasive techniques first, using surgery only after other options have been explored. Outside of medicine, Dr. Sobol enjoys time with his family, fishing, and snowboarding.
Dr. Sobol treats patients in our Freehold and Monroe locations. If you’re experiencing ongoing hip or knee pain, request an appointment with Dr. Sobol.
This blog from Advanced Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Institute (AOSMI) is intended for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Patient recovery is not guaranteed, and each patient’s results may vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for a personalized care plan.
