Athletes sometimes develop pain in their hips during training. It can start on the top, inside or outside part of the hip. The specific location of the pain can help diagnose the problem. Pain that is on the outside part of the upper leg, starting at the hip and running down to the outside of the knee, is typically associated with IT band syndrome. This can be diagnosed by a doctor after discussing the history of the injury and when pain occurs. Treatment for IT band tightness could include stretching, specific exercises and/or a foam roller. You may also be able to freeze a paper cup of water and perform ice massages to the area.

 

Pain on the upper and outer portion of your hip with activity-related pain can indicate hip bursitis. Hip bursitis is inflammation of the trochanteric bursa located over the greater trochanter. The trochanteric bursa may be inflamed by a group of muscles or tendons rubbing over the bursa and causing friction against the thigh bone. A tight IT band can lead to trochanteric bursitis. Treatments for hip bursitis include icing, anti-inflammatories or possible steroid injection.

 

Muscle strains are stretches or tears in a muscle. Some of the most common hip strains include the quadriceps, hamstrings and hip flexors. They usually occur after tightening the muscle extensively during activity. Symptoms include feeling a pop or snap over the muscle, pain or a burning sensation during activities, bruising or swelling and trouble using the muscle. Symptoms can last multiple days after the activity. Treatments for muscle strains include stretching, icing, anti-inflammatories and rest.

Stress responses or fractures are cracks in a bone caused by repeated or prolonged use. The most common sites for a stress fracture are the foot, leg, hip and back. Symptoms include pain, swelling and bruising. Stress injuries are diagnosed by the use of X-rays, CT scan, MRI or a bone scan. Treatment usually consists of isolating the injury area and immobilizing it until proper healing occurs.