Hip Pain & Injury Treatment

Hip pain can make everyday movements, such as walking, sitting, standing, sleeping, or exercising, uncomfortable or even painful.

Because the hip plays a central role in nearly all lower body movement, pain in this joint often affects balance, posture, and overall mobility.

Our approach to hip pain focuses on identifying the root cause of discomfort, restoring proper movement mechanics, and helping you return to daily activities with confidence not simply managing symptoms.

Whether your hip pain developed gradually from overuse, appeared suddenly after an injury, or followed surgery, our trained therapists provide personalized, evidence based care across Utah, Idaho, and Montana.

Understanding hip pain

The hip is a large, weight bearing joint that connects the torso to the lower body. It must support strength, flexibility, and stability during walking, bending, and rotational movements.

Because of its role in movement and load transfer, the hip is vulnerable to injury, degeneration, and compensatory strain.

Hip pain may be felt in the joint itself or radiate to the groin, thigh, glutes, or lower back.

When hip dysfunction is left untreated, it can lead to altered movement patterns and increased stress on the knees, spine, or feet.

Along with localized hip pain, common symptoms may include:

• Pain in the knee, groin, or outer thigh
• Stiffness or reduced range of motion
• Pain that worsens with activity or prolonged sitting
• Difficulty walking, standing, or climbing stairs
• Clicking, catching, or instability
• Disrupted sleep due to discomfort
• Lower back pain

Physical therapy helps restore normal movement and reduce stress on surrounding joints.

Common hip conditions we treat

Hip pain can stem from a wide range of conditions, including:

Hip arthritis & osteoarthritis

Degenerative joint changes can cause stiffness, pain, and limited mobility, especially during weight bearing activities.

Hip labral tears

Damage to the cartilage surrounding the hip socket may cause clicking, instability, or deep joint pain.

Hip bursitis & tendonitis

Inflammation of the bursae or tendons can cause pain along the outside of the hip or groin.

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI)

Structural abnormalities in the hip joint can limit motion and cause pain during flexion or rotation.

Hip replacement & post-surgical rehabilitation

Physical therapy is essential for restoring strength, mobility, and safe movement following hip surgery.

IT band syndrome

Tightness or irritation along the iliotibial band can cause lateral hip and thigh pain.

Piriformis syndrome

Compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve can create hip and glute pain with radiating symptoms.

Hip flexor strains

Overuse or sudden injury can cause pain in the front of the hip, particularly with lifting or running.

Causes of hip pain

Hip pain may develop due to:

• Repetitive overuse or strain
• Muscle imbalances or weakness
• Poor posture or movement mechanics
• Sports or work related activities
• Degenerative joint changes
• Trauma, falls, or fractures
• Compensation from knee, foot, or spine issues

Early intervention helps prevent chronic pain and movement limitations.

How physical therapy helps hip injuries

Physical therapy addresses both pain and function by restoring efficient movement patterns.

Pain relief & inflammation reduction

Hands on care and targeted techniques help reduce joint and soft tissue irritation.

Restoring hip mobility

Joint mobilization and stretching improve flexibility and ease of movement.

Strengthening hip & core muscles

Progressive strengthening enhances stability, balance, and load tolerance.

Gait training

Movement retraining improves walking mechanics and reduces stress on the hip and surrounding joints.

Return to activity

Condition specific rehabilitation prepares you for daily activities, work, or sports.    

Our hip treatment approach

At Mountain Land Physical Therapy Partners, hip care is individualized and goal driven.

Comprehensive movement assessment

We evaluate posture, gait, strength, mobility, and movement patterns to identify contributing factors.

Manual therapy techniques

Hands on treatments, including manual therapy, support joint mobility, circulation, and tissue health.

Therapeutic exercise programs

Customized therapeutic exercises restore strength, endurance, and coordination.

Advanced modalities

When appropriate, modalities may be used to reduce pain and promote tissue healing.

Activity modification

We help you adjust movement habits and daily activities to reduce strain and prevent reinjury.

Hip replacement rehabilitation

After hip replacement surgery, physical therapy plays a critical role in recovery. Treatment focuses on:

• Restoring range of motion
• Rebuilding strength and balance
• Improving walking mechanics
• Promoting safe return to daily activities

A structured rehabilitation program supports long-term joint health and functional independence.

Preventing hip injuries

Once pain improves, therapy shifts toward long-term protection. Your therapist may recommend:

• Strength and flexibility exercises
• Movement retraining and posture correction
• Gradual return-to-activity strategies
• Lifestyle or ergonomic adjustments

These strategies help reduce the risk of future hip injuries.     .

When to seek treatment for hip pain

You should seek care if you experience:

• Persistent or worsening hip pain
• Stiffness or loss of mobility
• Pain that interferes with walking or daily activities
• Clicking, catching, or instability
• Pain following injury or surgery

Early treatment can improve outcomes and prevent long-term dysfunction.