The hip joint is one of the most powerful and active joints in the human body, allowing us to walk, run, climb, and rotate with stability and strength. These movements depend heavily on the tendons — thick, fibrous cords that connect muscles to bones. When one or more of these tendons become irritated or inflamed, the condition is known as hip tendonitis (also called tendinitis).
Hip tendonitis can cause sharp or aching pain, stiffness, and weakness that worsen with activity. Though common among athletes, it can affect anyone whose daily activities involve repetitive motion or prolonged strain.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we diagnose and treat hip tendonitis using advanced, evidence-based methods. Our goal is to relieve inflammation, restore strength, and help patients across Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas return to comfortable, pain-free movement.
Tendons act as strong connectors between muscles and bones, transmitting the force necessary for motion. When these tendons are overworked, small microscopic tears can form, leading to inflammation, pain, and stiffness.
Several major tendons support hip movement, including:
- Iliopsoas tendon: Involved in lifting the thigh or bending the hip.
- Gluteal tendons (gluteus medius and minimus): Stabilize the hip during walking or standing.
- Hamstring tendons: Extend from the back of the thigh to the lower pelvis, assisting in hip extension.
When one or more of these tendons becomes irritated, the result is hip tendonitis — a painful but treatable condition that can affect movement and quality of life.
Hip tendonitis typically develops from repetitive stress, but it can also occur after acute injury or prolonged overuse.
Common causes include:
- Repetitive motion: Running, cycling, or climbing stairs frequently.
- Overuse or strain: Sudden increase in physical activity or training intensity.
- Improper posture or body mechanics: Poor alignment during movement can overload certain tendons.
- Muscle imbalances: Weak or tight muscles around the hip alter biomechanics, increasing strain.
- Direct trauma: A fall or hard impact on the hip.
- Arthritis or bursitis: Joint inflammation can place additional stress on tendons.
- Age-related degeneration: Tendons lose elasticity and strength over time, making them more vulnerable to injury.
Risk factors include:
- Athletic activity (running, soccer, cycling, dancing)
- Occupations involving repetitive lifting or squatting
- Previous hip or pelvic injury
- Leg-length discrepancy
- Obesity or sudden weight gain
Hip tendonitis often begins with mild discomfort that becomes sharper or more persistent over time, especially during or after activity.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain or tenderness at the front, outer, or back of the hip
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion
- Swelling or warmth near the affected tendon
- Pain that increases when walking, running, or climbing stairs
- Discomfort when lying on the affected side
- Weakness or instability in the hip and leg
Pain location can help identify the specific tendon involved — for instance, front-groin pain often points to iliopsoas tendonitis, while pain along the outer hip suggests gluteal tendonitis.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, Dr. Robert L. Burke, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, performs a comprehensive evaluation to identify which tendon is affected and determine the extent of inflammation or damage.
Diagnosis typically includes:
- Medical history: Review of symptoms, activity level, and any prior injuries.
- Physical examination: Palpation and movement testing to identify tender areas and assess strength.
- Range-of-motion testing: Determines whether the pain originates from the tendon, joint, or surrounding tissues.
Imaging:
- Ultrasound: Detects tendon thickening or inflammation.
- MRI: Reveals tears, degeneration, or associated bursitis.
- X-rays: Used to rule out arthritis, bone spurs, or structural abnormalities.
This diagnostic process ensures that the treatment plan targets the exact source of pain and inflammation.
Treatment for hip tendonitis focuses on relieving inflammation, promoting tendon healing, and restoring flexibility and strength. The majority of cases respond well to conservative care.
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Rest and activity modification: Avoiding repetitive movements or high-impact exercises that aggravate symptoms.
- Cold therapy: Reduces swelling and pain after activity.
- Anti-inflammatory medications: Help manage discomfort and inflammation.
- A personalized program of stretching, strengthening, and mobility exercises designed to restore proper muscle balance and reduce tendon strain.
- Platelet-rich plasma injections stimulate the body’s natural healing process and repair tendon tissue.
Ultrasound or shockwave therapy: Non-invasive treatments that promote blood flow and healing in the affected area.
Surgical Treatments
If non-surgical treatment fails or there is significant tendon damage, Arthroscopic Tendon Repair or Debridement may be recommended.
In this minimally invasive procedure, Dr. Burke removes damaged tissue or reattaches torn fibers, restoring the tendon’s strength and function.
In rare cases involving severe degeneration, Reconstructive Surgery may be performed to reinforce the joint structure and surrounding tissues.
Recovery from hip tendonitis depends on the severity of inflammation and the chosen treatment approach.
Non-surgical recovery:
- Most patients experience pain relief within 4–6 weeks with rest and therapy.
- Gradual return to activity once flexibility and strength are restored.
Post-surgical recovery:
- Early rehabilitation begins within days of surgery under professional supervision.
- Physical therapy focuses on regaining mobility, strengthening muscles, and preventing scar tissue formation.
- Full recovery typically occurs within 8–12 weeks, depending on individual healing.
Rehabilitation goals:
- Restore pain-free movement
- Improve posture and balance
- Prevent recurrence through proper stretching and conditioning
With appropriate care, most patients fully recover from hip tendonitis without long-term complications. However, returning to strenuous activity too soon can cause reinjury.
Prevention tips:
- Warm up properly before exercise or physical work.
- Strengthen hip, gluteal, and core muscles regularly.
- Use proper form and posture during activity.
- Gradually increase exercise intensity and duration.
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint stress.
- Address biomechanical issues early through professional evaluation.
Preventive care and conditioning can greatly reduce recurrence and support long-term hip health.
You should seek orthopedic evaluation if:
- Hip pain persists for more than one to two weeks
- Pain limits walking, sitting, or climbing stairs
- You notice swelling or stiffness that doesn’t improve with rest
- Pain worsens at night or after physical activity
- Conservative treatments fail to provide relief
Early treatment can prevent chronic inflammation and permanent tendon damage.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
If hip pain is slowing you down or interfering with daily life, professional care can help you move freely again.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we provide accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment for tendon inflammation, helping patients regain mobility and prevent recurrence.
We proudly serve Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas with compassionate, expert orthopedic care.
Call (713) 436-3488 or Request an Appointment Online to schedule a consultation with Dr. Robert L. Burke, board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and joint conditions.
