Why Your Hips Hurt at Night: Causes, Symptoms & When to See a Specialist
Are you tired of tossing and turning because of hip pain? You’re not alone. Nighttime hip discomfort is a common reason patients visit San Antonio Orthopædic Specialists, often saying something like, “I just can’t sleep on my right side anymore.” When pain disrupts your rest, it’s more than just annoying. It can impact your overall health, energy, and quality of life.
So why does hip pain get worse at night? And what can be done about it?
We asked Dr. Brandon Couch, orthopaedic surgeon at San Antonio Orthopædic Specialists, to explain the most common causes and when it’s time to come in for an appointment.
Common Causes of Hip Pain at Night
#1: Hip Bursitis
One of the most common reasons people experience pain when lying on their side is hip bursitis, inflammation of the small, fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion your joints. Patients often describe a sharp or aching pain along the outside of the hip, especially when sleeping on the affected side.
Symptoms of bursitis often include:
Pain on the outer hip or thigh
Tenderness to the touch
Pain that worsens when lying on that side
Bursitis can often be managed without surgery using a combination of treatments like anti-inflammatory medications, targeted stretching and therapy, and hip injections for longer-lasting relief.
#2: Hip Arthritis
If your pain is more centralized in the groin or front of the hip, especially after long days on your feet, arthritis may be the culprit. Over time, the cartilage in the hip joint wears down, leading to stiffness, swelling, and discomfort, especially at night when joints stiffen after inactivity.
Symptoms of hip arthritis often include:
Deep aching in the groin or front of the hip
Limited range of motion
Pain that flares after walking or standing for long periods
Treatment plans depend on the severity of the arthritis, but options often start with conservative measures like medication, therapy, and injections. In advanced cases, hip replacement surgery may provide lasting relief and restore mobility.
When Should You See a Specialist?
Many patients ask, “How do I know if it’s serious enough to come in?” According to Dr. Couch, the answer is simple: if it’s affecting your sleep, it’s time to get checked.
Lack of sleep can lead to fatigue, poor concentration, and even weight gain. Don’t wait for the pain to worsen. Early evaluation can help avoid more serious problems down the road.
At SAOS, our team uses physical exams and X-rays to pinpoint the exact cause of your pain and build a treatment plan that fits your lifestyle.
Get Back to Restful Nights
If hip pain is keeping you up at night, we’re here to help. Whether it’s bursitis, arthritis, or something else entirely, the board-certified orthopaedic team at San Antonio Orthopædic Specialists can guide you toward relief.
Book an appointment today to learn more about your options and start sleeping soundly again.