April 8, 2025
Whether it’s making it harder to walk, exercise, or just get comfortable, hip pain is pretty hard to ignore. If you’ve been wondering how to realign your hips and get some relief, you’re definitely not alone. The good news is that chiropractic care might be just what you need! It’s a gentle, non-invasive way to address your discomfort and help you move freely again.
Learn more about what causes hip pain, how chiropractors adjust the hips, and when it’s time to see a professional below!
What Causes Hip Pain?
Hip pain can stem from all kinds of things, and figuring out what’s actually causing it is the key to getting the proper treatment. Some of the most common reasons people experience hip pain include:
- Injuries and Trauma: Accidents like sudden falls or sports injuries can lead to fractures or strains in the hip. Even overdoing repetitive activities like running or cycling can cause inflammation and soreness over time.
- Degenerative Conditions: Hip pain is often linked to conditions like osteoarthritis, where the cartilage in the joint wears down, causing stiffness and discomfort. Bursitis, inflammation of the small fluid-filled sacs around the hip joint, can also be a source of pain.
- Structural Issues: Problems like a torn hip labrum (the cartilage that stabilizes the joint) or a hip misalignment can be painful and limit movement.
- Referred Pain: Sometimes, hip pain doesn’t come from the hip itself. Issues in the lower back or knees can cause pain that feels like it’s in the hip.
- Lifestyle Factors: Sitting too much or having poor posture can lead to tight muscles and imbalance, which may eventually cause hip pain.
How Do Chiropractors Adjust Hips?
It usually starts with an evaluation, where your chiropractor asks about your medical history and performs a physical exam to pinpoint any misalignments or tight spots in your hip. Once they’ve figured out what’s going on, they’ll have you lie down on a chiropractic table on your side, back, or stomach, depending on what’s needed.
From there, your chiropractor will use specific hands-on techniques to adjust the joint. Some adjustments may be quick and precise, while others are more gentle and focused on easing the joint back into proper alignment. Afterward, they might suggest some stretches or simple exercises to help support the adjustment and keep you moving comfortably.
Are Hip Adjustments Painful?
Most people find these adjustments pretty manageable. They’re generally not painful, though you might feel slightly sore afterward. Your chiropractor will check in with you throughout the process to make sure you’re comfortable the whole time.
What Are the Benefits of Chiropractic Hip Adjustments?
Once your hips are properly aligned, you should notice better flexibility and an easier time moving around. Many patients also find relief from pain after getting adjusted. Additionally, since chiropractors focus on finding the root of the issue rather than just treating symptoms, the results tend to be longer-lasting than other conservative treatments.
When to See a Chiropractor for Hip Pain
Here are a few signs it might be time to schedule a chiropractic visit for your recurring hip pain:
- Chronic Hip Pain: Your hip pain keeps coming back or is starting to affect your daily routine.
- Limited Range of Motion: Struggling to move your hip comfortably, feeling stiff, or having trouble walking or going up stairs are all signs that something could be out of alignment.
- Previous Injuries: If you still feel pain or discomfort from an old hip injury, a chiropractor can check for lingering misalignments and help you get things back on track.
- Postural Changes: Uneven hips, a limp, or changes in posture can all point to alignment issues that a chiropractor can help correct.
- Sciatica Symptoms: Pain that travels down your leg or into your lower back might be linked to hip misalignment or nerve pressure.
Ready to Be Free of Your Hip Pain? Contact Our Office!
Are you dealing with hip pain? You don’t have to go through it alone. At Family Life Chiropractic, we’re here to help you feel better with care that’s tailored to your specific needs.
Give us a call at 727-447-4647 or contact us online today to schedule your next appointment!
About the Author: With over three decades of experience, Dr. Jere Jarrett is a highly educated and experienced chiropractor who serves Clearwater, FL, and the surrounding areas. He takes a “whole-body” approach to chiropractic care. Instead of treating symptoms, Dr. Jarrett looks for the underlying cause of pain and discomfort. Call 727-447-4647 to schedule an appointment!