Hip pain can come from the joint itself, the surrounding muscles and tendons, or even be referred from your low back. At The Spine and Wellness Center in Coral Springs, Dr. Jared Cohen helps patients across Coral Springs and Parkland pinpoint the true source of their hip pain and treat it conservatively, without rushing toward drugs or surgery. Understanding what is driving your symptoms is the first step toward lasting relief.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Jared Cohen, DC · Updated June 2026

Common causes of hip pain

The hip is a large, weight-bearing ball-and-socket joint, and several different structures can be the source of trouble. Identifying which one is involved guides the right treatment.

• Bursitis: inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the hip, often causing pain on the outer hip that worsens when lying on that side
• Labral tears: damage to the cartilage rim of the socket, which can cause catching, clicking, or deep groin pain
• Osteoarthritis: gradual wear of the joint cartilage that brings stiffness and aching, especially in older adults
• Tendinitis and muscle strains: overuse of the hip flexors, glutes, or IT band
• Referred pain from the spine or sacroiliac (SI) joint: low-back or pelvic problems that send pain into the hip and buttock

How to tell where the pain is coming from

Location offers important clues. Pain in the groin often points to the joint itself, such as arthritis or a labral issue. Pain on the outer hip frequently signals bursitis or tendon trouble. Pain in the buttock or that radiates down the leg may actually originate from the lower back or SI joint rather than the hip.

Because these sources overlap, a careful evaluation matters. Treating the hip when the real problem is the spine, or vice versa, leads to frustration and slow progress.

Symptoms to watch for

• Aching or sharp pain in the groin, outer hip, or buttock
• Stiffness that is worse in the morning or after sitting
• Reduced range of motion or trouble putting on shoes and socks
• Pain with walking, climbing stairs, or rising from a chair
• Clicking, catching, or a feeling of instability

Conservative treatment options

Most hip pain responds well to non-invasive care, especially when addressed early. At The Spine and Wellness Center, our focused hip pain treatment begins with a thorough assessment of the joint, the surrounding muscles, and your spine and pelvis to find the true driver of your symptoms.

Our drug-free chiropractic care can restore proper movement to the hip, pelvis, and lower spine, easing both joint-based and referred pain. We frequently combine this with physical therapy to strengthen the glutes and core, improve flexibility, and correct the movement patterns that contributed to the problem. We serve patients throughout Coral Springs, Parkland, Coconut Creek, and Boca Raton, with same-day appointments often available.

Exercises and self-care for hip pain

Gentle movement usually helps more than rest. Try these at home, stopping if any cause sharp pain:

• Glute bridges to strengthen the muscles that stabilize the hip
• Clamshells to target the hip rotators
• Standing hip flexor stretch to relieve tightness from prolonged sitting
• Figure-4 piriformis stretch for the deep hip and buttock muscles
• Gentle low-impact activity such as walking or swimming

When to see us in Coral Springs or Parkland

If your hip pain lasts more than a couple of weeks, limits your daily activities, or comes with weakness, numbness, or a feeling that the joint may give way, it is time for an evaluation. Catching the cause early often means simpler, faster treatment and a better long-term outcome. Many patients find that a tailored combination of chiropractic adjustments and rehabilitation resolves pain that medication only masked.