Pain in the back of the hip can be caused by several conditions, the most common of which are sciatica, arthritis, and injuries resulting from trauma. It is important for people who suffer pain in this area to visit a medical professional to get an accurate diagnosis, as the treatment can vary according to its cause. Stretching and exercise may, for example, be sufficient to treat some conditions such as tight muscles that lead to sciatica, but other conditions may require medications, injections, or even surgery to fix completely. If the pain is chronic, or it worsens over time, sufferers should see a healthcare professional immediately.
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve that runs from the lower back down the back of each leg becomes compressed, leading to pain anywhere throughout the length of the nerve. Pain in the back of the hip can indicate sciatica, especially if that pain is accompanied by numbness or tingling anywhere throughout the legs. This condition can often be treated with regular stretching and exercise, though in some cases, anti-inflammatory medications or steroid injections may be necessary to treat it. In the worst cases of sciatica, in which neurological issues may develop, a medical professional may recommend surgery to address the issue, though this is not common.
If the pain is caused by arthritis, treatment options will involve pain management techniques, since there is no cure for the condition. Arthritis occurs when the cartilage in a joint begins to degrade, which can lead to pain, inflammation, and excess movement in the joint. Treatments may include anti-inflammatory medication and painkillers, regular stretching and exercise, and even surgery. Partial and full joint replacement surgeries are sometimes recommended for arthritis sufferers who can no longer perform daily tasks; the patient must be in good health, and he or she must be prepared for a long and sometimes painful recovery period.
Injuries resulting from direct traumas are very common causes of pain in the back of the hip. Athletes may experience such pain after falling or colliding with a solid object, which can lead to fractures, muscle strains and tears, or bruising. In many cases, the RICE treatment is used for such injuries; RICE stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. These steps help to prevent swelling, decrease pain, and stimulate blood flow to the injury to encourage faster healing. More severe injuries may require more aggressive treatment.