The hip joint is one of the human body's largest and most important weight‒bearing joints. It's a classic ball-and-socket joint, where the femoral head fits securely into the pelvic socket, allowing for a wide range of motion during walking, bending, or rotating.
Because it supports the upper body during nearly all movement, the hip is highly vulnerable to damage from impact, overuse, or degeneration. Pain may arise from irritated soft tissues, damaged cartilage, hip fractures, or underlying conditions like arthritis or a labral tear.
While some soreness may resolve with rest, severe hip pain or discomfort that lingers often signals a more complex issue. Identifying the exact cause early can help avoid complications and lead to better treatment outcomes.