Hip Pain & Stiffness

Hip pain and stiffness are common — especially with sitting, exercise, running, lifting, or aging — yet many people experience symptoms without a clear injury. Tightness in the hip, limited mobility, aching in the groin or outside of the hip, or discomfort with walking and squatting are often mechanical in nature, even when imaging does not show a significant problem.

At Osteopractic Physical Therapy of the Carolinas, we help patients in Fort Mill, Charlotte, and throughout the Carolinas improve hip pain and stiffness by identifying the true drivers of restricted movement and discomfort. Our approach focuses on hands-on manual therapy, joint mobilization or manipulation, and targeted treatment of the muscles that commonly limit hip motion.

What Does Hip Pain or Stiffness Commonly Feel Like?

Hip-related issues do not always present as sharp pain. Common symptoms include:

  • Stiffness or tightness in the front of the hip

  • Aching in the groin, outer hip, or buttock

  • Discomfort with walking, running, or standing up from sitting

  • Limited range of motion with squatting or lunging

  • A feeling of restriction rather than pain

  • Hip tightness that contributes to low back or knee discomfort

These symptoms are frequently driven by joint restriction and muscular overactivity, not tissue damage.

Why Do My Hips Feel Tight Even If I’m Active?

Many active individuals experience hip stiffness due to:

  • Prolonged sitting or driving

  • Repetitive movement patterns

  • Loss of joint mobility over time

  • Muscles working harder to compensate for restricted joints

  • Poor load distribution during activity

Stretching alone often provides temporary relief but does not address underlying joint and movement restrictions.

Is Hip Pain Always Arthritis or a Labral Tear?

No — and this is a very common misconception.

While arthritis and labral pathology can contribute to hip pain, many people experience hip stiffness or discomfort due to:

  • Limited joint capsule mobility

  • Muscle guarding around the hip

  • Altered movement patterns

  • Reduced coordination between the hip and pelvis

Imaging findings must always be interpreted in context — many people have “abnormal” imaging and no pain at all.

Can Manual Therapy or Manipulation Help Hip Stiffness?

Yes. Manual therapy and joint mobilization or manipulation can significantly improve hip mobility when stiffness is a contributing factor.

At OPTC:

  • Treatment is individualized

  • Joints are assessed for true motion loss

  • Manual therapy is combined with soft tissue treatment

  • Movement retraining ensures changes are maintained

Restoring hip motion often reduces strain on the low back and knees as well.

How Is OPTC’s Hip Treatment Different?

Most traditional approaches focus primarily on:

  • Stretching routines

  • Strengthening exercises

  • Activity modification

At Osteopractic Physical Therapy of the Carolinas, treatment emphasizes:

  • One-on-one care with a Doctor of Physical Therapy

  • Hands-on joint and soft tissue treatment

  • Addressing the cause of restriction, not just symptoms

  • Education on long-term hip health and movement efficiency

This approach is especially effective for patients who feel “stuck” despite being active or consistent with exercise.

How Many Visits Does Hip Pain or Stiffness Usually Take?

Many uncomplicated hip mobility and pain issues improve within 3–6 focused visits, depending on the underlying drivers and activity demands.

Our goal is to:

  • Restore hip motion

  • Reduce recurring tightness

  • Improve confidence with movement

  • Prevent future injury or compensation

Hip Pain & Stiffness Physical Therapy in Fort Mill & Charlotte, NC

Osteopractic Physical Therapy of the Carolinas provides expert hip care for patients in:

  • Fort Mill, SC

  • Charlotte, NC

  • Surrounding Carolinas communities

All care is delivered one-on-one with a Doctor of Physical Therapy in a private setting.

FAQ

Written by Dr. Noah Zacharko, DPT
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Senior Instructor, American Academy of Manipulative Therapy’s Spinal Manipulation & Dry needling Institutes Founder, Osteopractic Physical Therapy of the Carolinas

  • A: Stretching can help temporarily, but persistent stiffness often requires joint and movement-specific treatment.

  • A: Yes. Limited hip motion often increases strain on the lumbar spine.

  • A: When performed by a trained Doctor of Physical Therapy and used appropriately, it is safe and effective for many patients.

  • A: Most patients do not need imaging unless specific red flags are present.