Can A Chiropractor Help With Hip Pain?

Disclaimer: The information in this blog is general in nature and based on publicly available sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have specific health concerns or conditions, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Around 2.1 million Australians (about 8.3% of the population) were estimated to be living with osteoarthritis in 2022, with hip osteoarthritis being one of the significant contributors to hip pain. This means millions of Australians experience hip pain related to joint issues each year.

While chiropractors do not directly treat hip pain itself, they focus on addressing underlying issues such as spinal alignment and joint function that may contribute to discomfort. Research suggests that chiropractic care may provide short-term relief for some patients with hip osteoarthritis. For example, a 2010 pilot study found patients receiving chiropractic treatments reported a significant decrease in self-rated hip pain over three weeks compared to those without treatment, though the study emphasises the need for larger trials to confirm these findings.

So, can a chiropractor help with hip pain? Chiropractic care can be a complementary approach that supports overall musculoskeletal health and may help reduce symptoms associated with hip problems.

If you’re interested in understanding how chiropractic care might support your hip health as part of a broader management plan, read on to explore the evidence and realistic expectations.

Common Causes of Hip Pain

Hip pain can arise from a variety of causes, often related to joint, muscle, nerve or referred issues. Understanding these helps guide appropriate management and when to seek professional advice.

• Osteoarthritis: Degeneration of hip joint cartilage, which causes pain and stiffness, especially in older adults.
• Bursitis: Inflammation of the cushioning sacs around the hip joint, leading to tenderness.
• Muscle Strain: Overstretching or tearing of hip muscles, causing localised pain.
• Tendonitis: Inflammation of tendons around the hip from overuse or injury.
• Hip Labral Tear: Damage to the cartilage ring stabilising the hip, causing pain and clicking.
• Hip Fracture: Break in the hip bone, often due to falls in older adults.
• Pinched Nerve: Compression of nerves near the hip, which causes radiating pain or numbness.
• Sciatica: Irritation of the sciatic nerve leading to hip and leg pain.
• Hip Impingement: Abnormal bone contact that restricts hip movement and causes discomfort.
• Referred Pain from Lower Back: Hip pain originating from spinal or nerve issues in the lower back.

Less common but important causes include infections like septic arthritis (a medical emergency), inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and other systemic issues

How Chiropractic Care May Support Hip-Related Issues

Chiropractors do not directly treat hip pain but focus on addressing musculoskeletal factors that can contribute to discomfort around the hip. Below are common hip-related problems that chiropractors often assess and manage as part of a broader treatment plan, supported by clinical evidence and professional guidelines.

Misalignment of the Hip Joint

Misalignment or subtle positional changes in the hip or pelvis can alter joint mechanics and increase stress on surrounding tissues. Chiropractic adjustments aim to restore proper alignment, which may help reduce uneven loading and improve function. Research notes that targeted joint manipulation can help realign joints and relieve pressure on affected areas.

Hip Joint Stiffness

Reduced mobility in the hip joint often results from inflammation, arthritis or prolonged inactivity. Chiropractors use joint mobilisation techniques to gently improve range of motion and decrease stiffness, supported by clinical practice guidelines recommending manual therapy for osteoarthritis-related stiffness.

Muscle Imbalance

Unequal strength or flexibility between opposing muscle groups around the hip can cause altered movement patterns and pain. Chiropractic care includes postural assessment and tailored exercises to correct these imbalances. Studies show that addressing muscle imbalances improves joint mechanics and reduces discomfort.

Sciatica-Related Hip Pain

Sciatica involves irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, causing pain that radiates through the hip and leg. Chiropractic adjustments targeting the lumbar spine and pelvis can reduce nerve pressure and alleviate symptoms, as supported by clinical evidence.

Hip Pain from Poor Posture

Poor posture can place abnormal stress on the hips and pelvis, contributing to discomfort over time. Chiropractors assess posture and recommend ergonomic and lifestyle modifications alongside manual therapies to reduce strain and improve alignment.

Pain Due to Leg Length Differences

Research indicates that leg length discrepancy (LLD) affects up to 90% of the general population, with an average difference of about 5.2 mm. LLD can cause uneven pelvic tilt and compensatory hip stress. Chiropractic care can address this through spinal and pelvic adjustments to improve balance and reduce pain.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Injuries to muscles, tendons or ligaments around the hip can cause pain and limit function. Chiropractors use soft tissue therapies such as massage and stretching to reduce inflammation, promote healing and restore mobility, consistent with best practice recommendations.

Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

Dysfunction or inflammation of the sacroiliac joint can cause pain in the lower back and hip region. Chiropractic manipulation and mobilisation of the sacroiliac joint have been shown to improve pain and function in patients with sacroiliac joint syndrome.

When To See A Chiropractor For Hip Pain

You should consider seeing a chiropractor if you experience any of the following symptoms related to your hip pain. They may indicate underlying musculoskeletal issues that could benefit from professional assessment and care.

• Pain does not go away with rest
• Trouble walking or moving the leg
• Pain spreads to the lower back or knee
• Feeling of tightness in the hip
• Limited range of motion
• Sharp pain after injury
• Discomfort from sitting or standing too long
• The hip feels unstable

How Does A Chiropractor Help With Hip Pain

Chiropractors use a variety of techniques aimed at addressing the underlying musculoskeletal factors that may contribute to hip discomfort. Some of the key ways chiropractors may assist in managing hip-related issues are:

Adjusts Misaligned Joints

Chiropractors use precise manual adjustments to correct misalignments in the spine, pelvis and hip joints. These adjustments help restore proper joint positioning, which can reduce abnormal stress on the hip and surrounding tissues. Research shows that spinal and pelvic realignment may improve joint mechanics and reduce pain associated with hip dysfunction.

Relieves Pressure on Nerves

Misalignments or tight muscles can compress nerves that contribute to hip pain, such as the sciatic nerve. Chiropractic adjustments and soft tissue therapies aim to relieve this nerve pressure, potentially decreasing radiating pain and improving nerve function.

Improves Joint Movement

Joint mobilisation techniques gently increase the range of motion in stiff or restricted hip joints. Clinical guidelines for osteoarthritis and musculoskeletal conditions support manual therapy as a way to enhance joint flexibility and reduce stiffness.

Reduces Muscle Tension

Soft tissue therapies, including myofascial release, trigger point therapy and massage, help relax tight muscles around the hip. These techniques reduce inflammation and muscle spasms, which can contribute to pain and limited mobility.

Restores Balance in the Hips

Chiropractors assess and address muscle imbalances and pelvic asymmetry that may cause uneven loading of the hips. Correcting these imbalances through adjustments and exercises improves functional stability and reduces compensatory strain.

Corrects Posture Issues

Poor posture can place excessive stress on the hips and pelvis. Chiropractors evaluate posture and provide adjustments and ergonomic advice to promote better alignment, which may alleviate hip discomfort related to postural strain.

Enhances Blood Flow to the Area

Soft tissue treatments and joint mobilisations can increase circulation around the hip joint. Improved blood flow supports tissue healing and reduces inflammation, contributing to pain relief and recovery.

Provides Stretching Exercises

Chiropractors often prescribe specific stretches targeting hip muscles and connective tissues. Regular stretching helps maintain flexibility, reduce tightness and support the effects of manual therapies.

Recommends Strengthening Routines

Strengthening exercises focusing on hip stabilisers and surrounding muscles are integral to chiropractic care. Studies show that targeted strengthening improves joint support, reduces pain and lowers the risk of future injury.

Guides Lifestyle and Ergonomic Changes

Chiropractors advise on lifestyle modifications such as activity adjustments, posture correction and ergonomic improvements at work or home. These changes help reduce hip strain and support long-term musculoskeletal health.

Important Considerations Before Chiropractic Care for Hip Pain

Although chiropractic treatment is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience side effects or complications. Being aware of these possible reactions can help you make informed decisions and discuss any concerns with your practitioner.

• Soreness after treatment
• Muscle stiffness
• Nerve irritation
• Joint discomfort
• Worsening of existing conditions
• Rare risk of fracture with bone weakness
• Dizziness or fatigue after adjustment

Final Thoughts

While chiropractors do not directly treat hip pain itself, they play a valuable role in addressing musculoskeletal factors that may contribute to discomfort and limited mobility. Through joint adjustments, soft tissue therapies and personalised exercise plans, chiropractic care can support improved hip function and overall wellbeing.

If you experience persistent or worsening hip pain, consulting a healthcare professional, including a chiropractor, can help identify the underlying causes and guide appropriate treatment. Always ensure open communication with your practitioner to maximise safety and effectiveness on your path to better hip health.

Take the Next Step Toward Better Hip Health

Ready to find relief from hip pain and improve your mobility? Contact Goto Health today to schedule a personalised chiropractic consultation.

Our expert team is dedicated to helping you achieve lasting comfort and enhanced wellbeing through tailored care plans designed just for you. Don’t wait. Book your appointment now and start your journey to better hip health.