What muscles could cause side of hip pain?

Muscles that may contribute to side of hip pain include gluteus medius, gluteus minimus, piriformis, obturator externus, obturator internus. Trigger points, strains, or weakness in these muscles can refer pain to this area.

Hip

Side of Hip

Q: What causes pain in the side of hip?

Common causes of side of hip pain include gluteus medius tendinopathy, greater trochanteric bursitis, gluteus minimus trigger points referring down the leg, hip abductor weakness from sedentary lifestyle, referred pain from the lumbar spine or sacroiliac joint. The specific cause depends on the nature of the pain, how it started, and which movements aggravate it.

Pain on the side of the hip typically involves the gluteus medius, gluteus minimus, or the greater trochanteric bursa. It is a common complaint among runners, side sleepers, and those with hip muscle weakness or imbalances.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment of any pain or medical condition.

Common Causes

Gluteus medius tendinopathy

Greater trochanteric bursitis

Gluteus minimus trigger points referring down the leg

Hip abductor weakness from sedentary lifestyle

Referred pain from the lumbar spine or sacroiliac joint

Muscles in This Area

Hip

gluteus medius

Side hip muscle for abduction and stabilization during single-leg stance in running, squats. Prevents Trendelenburg gait.

Gluteal tendinopathyTrochanteric bursitisGreater trochanteric pain syndrome

Hip

gluteus minimus

Deepest glute under medius, minimus abducts and internally rotates hip. Key stabilizer for balance in yoga, hiking.

Gluteus minimus tendinopathyHip labral tear

Hip

piriformis

The piriformis is a deep hip rotator in the glutes, externally rotating the hip for balance in squats and deadlifts. Tightness often causes sciatica-like pain. Essential for hip mobility in athletes.

Piriformis syndromePiriformis tendinopathy

Hip

obturator externus

Deep hip external rotator and adductor originating from the pelvis obturator foramen. Stabilizes hip in deep squats and lateral movements. Often overlooked but prevents groin strains in agility training.

Hip labral tearObturator externus tendinopathy

Hip

obturator internus

Deep pelvic external rotator turning thigh outward, key for piriformis syndrome differentials. Stabilizes sacroiliac joint in single-leg stance. Targeted in yoga for hip mobility.

Obturator internus syndromeDeep gluteal syndrome

Stretches That May Help

Side lying IT band stretch

Figure four supine

Clamshell reverse

Fire hydrant stretch reverse

Lateral lunge

Hip IR stretch

Figure-four stretch

Piriformis foam roll

Seated piriformis stretch

Obturator pigeon pose

Deep hip ER stretch

Modified pigeon

Supine figure four

Recommended Exercises

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if you cannot lie on the affected side, have a Trendelenburg gait (hip drops when walking), experience progressive hip stiffness, or have pain that has not improved after four weeks.