Hip and knee pain are among the most common musculoskeletal complaints, affecting people across all age groups and activity levels. What many don’t realize is that these two issues are often connected. Whether you’re experiencing discomfort while walking, standing, or exercising, understanding the relationship between hip and knee pain is essential for getting the right diagnosis and treatment. Left untreated, pain in one joint can lead to compensatory strain in the other, complicating recovery. With proper knowledge of the musculoskeletal system, early intervention, and physical therapy, you can find long-term relief.
How Are Hip and Knee Pain Connected?
Understanding the anatomical and biomechanical link between the hip and knee can help uncover the root of your pain. Both are weight-bearing joints, and dysfunction in one can influence movement patterns in the other. Alignment, muscle balance, and joint stability play crucial roles in maintaining healthy function.
The hip is a ball and socket joint, while the knee is a hinge joint—yet both rely on healthy cartilage, strong tendons, and stable muscles to function. If the gluteus medius muscles are weak or if the iliotibial band is tight, altered gait patterns can develop, causing knee and hip pain on one side. The body compensates in subtle ways, and these changes can eventually cause pain from hip to knee.
Common Causes of Hip and Knee Pain
Hip and knee pain may stem from various acute or chronic issues. These include structural abnormalities, degeneration, trauma, and lifestyle-related causes. Recognizing these root causes is essential for choosing the right treatment options.
In one study focusing on adults aged 60 and older, 14.3% reported experiencing significant hip pain on most days over a six-week period. This statistic emphasizes how prevalent joint discomfort is among aging populations and underlines the importance of early diagnosis and intervention.
Osteoarthritis – Wear and Tear Explained
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition characterized by cartilage breakdown and inflammation of the joints. It is one of the most common causes of knee and hip pain, particularly in older adults. Early signs include joint stiffness, tenderness, and reduced range of motion.
As cartilage wears down, bone-on-bone action can cause intense discomfort, especially in weight-bearing joints. Early signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis include pain during movement, especially when climbing stairs or getting out of a chair. Globally, osteoarthritis is a growing concern, with an estimated 595 million people affected as of 2020—accounting for 7.6% of the world population.
Managing osteoarthritis often involves physical therapy, acetaminophen, cold and heat therapy, and in severe cases, total hip replacement or joint replacement.physical therapy, acetaminophen, cold and heat therapy, and in severe cases, total hip replacement or joint replacement.
Tendonitis and Overuse Injuries
Tendinitis, or inflammation of the tendons, often results from overuse or poor body mechanics. Repetitive stress from running or cycling can inflame the hip tendinitis, knee tendinitis, or even lead to iliotibial band friction syndrome (ITBFS).
Symptoms include pain with movement, tenderness, and mild swelling. If untreated, tendonitis can limit activity and lead to chronic hip and knee pain. Recovery involves rest, gentle stretching, ice packs, low-impact exercise, and strengthening exercises to restore muscle balance and function.
Sciatica and Nerve-Related Pain
Sciatica is caused by a pinched sciatic nerve, often due to a herniated disc or spinal stenosis. This condition sends referred pain from the lower back down through the groin region, hip, and into the leg.
People often mistake sciatica for joint pain because of the pain from hip to knee. Accompanying symptoms may include abnormal sensations, muscle weakness, or tingling. Treatment typically includes non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, and in some cases, cortisone injections.
Injuries: Sprains, Strains, and Fractures
Sprains & strains can result from acute trauma, sports injuries, or falls. Ligament sprains, muscle strains, or even fractures can impact mobility and lead to compensatory knee and hip pain on one side.
When a fracture or sprain occurs, immobilizing the leg with a splint or cast may be required. Visible bruising, swelling, and tenderness around the joint are typical. A complete evaluation and timely diagnosis are essential to determine whether joint instability is present and to initiate appropriate care.
Flat Feet and Biomechanical Issues
Flat feet and poor alignment can lead to altered gait and uneven weight distribution, placing extra stress on the hip and knee joints. These biomechanical changes may trigger referred pain and lead to chronic overuse injuries like iliotibial band friction syndrome.
Wearing supportive footwear, performing regular exercise, and seeking physical therapy services in Scottsdale can prevent deterioration. Evaluating gait patterns, foot posture, and muscle weakness can help identify issues early and prevent long-term complications.
Signs You Should See a Doctor
Recognizing the signs that require professional help can prevent worsening of hip and knee pain. Many patients delay care until symptoms interfere with everyday life. Seek medical advice if you notice any of the following:
- Persistent joint stiffness or pain that lasts more than a few weeks
- Visible swelling, redness, or warmth around the joints
- Pain from hip to knee while walking, standing, or resting
- Difficulty bearing weight or sudden joint instability
- Pain accompanied by fever or abnormal sensations
A timely diagnosis can lead to faster healing and more effective treatment options.
Prevention and Treatment Options for Hip and Knee Pain
Taking proactive steps can help you protect your joints and avoid debilitating discomfort. Prevention starts with awareness and is supported by healthy habits. Effective treatment options range from conservative care to medical intervention.
Physical Therapy: Personalized Care for Relief
Physical therapy remains a cornerstone for treating hip and knee pain. At Scottsdale Physical Therapy & Performance, we assess muscle balance, joint alignment, and movement mechanics to develop customized programs.
We offer a variety of services, including:
- Manual therapy to reduce stiffness
- Strengthening exercises for core and joint stability
- Gentle stretching and mobility drills for flexibility
- Low-impact exercise guidance like water aerobics or yoga
Understanding the types of physical therapy and their benefits helps patients choose the most appropriate care. Our goal is to restore full function and help you return to daily life without pain.
Medical Treatments and Interventions
When conservative care is not enough, medical options may be recommended:
- NSAIDs, ibuprofen, or acetaminophen to reduce inflammation
- Cortisone injections or lubrication injections for joint relief
- Joint aspiration to relieve pressure from swelling
- Surgical procedures like total hip replacement or arthroscopy
These interventions are often used in cases of severe osteoarthritis, fractures, or chronic joint instability.
Lifestyle and Home Remedies
Everyday choices can significantly influence joint health and pain levels. Consider the following strategies:
- Maintain a healthy weight to decrease stress on weight-bearing joints
- Use supportive footwear to improve alignment
- Engage in regular exercise that strengthens the hips and knees
- Practice proper body mechanics during daily activities
- Implement stress management techniques to reduce tension-related pain
Simple changes like cold and heat therapy, ice packs, and rest can make a big difference when symptoms flare up.
How Scottsdale Physical Therapy & Performance Can Help You
If you’re experiencing knee and hip pain, Scottsdale Physical Therapy & Performance is here to help. We provide individualized care using a holistic approach that targets both symptoms and root causes.
Our clinic specializes in:
- Complete evaluations of the hip, knee, and musculoskeletal system
- Functional assessments of gait, posture, and muscle balance
- Advanced recovery plans with the latest therapy techniques
- Education on injury prevention and movement optimization
Whether you’re dealing with hip and knee pain or chronic pain from hip to knee, our experts will create a path toward healing and mobility.
Conclusion
Hip and knee pain can severely impact quality of life if left untreated. Understanding their connection and recognizing early symptoms enables faster and more effective treatment. At Scottsdale Physical Therapy & Performance, we combine cutting-edge techniques with compassionate care to guide you through every step of recovery.
FAQs
What does it mean when your hips and knees hurt?
It often indicates an underlying condition such as osteoarthritis, tendinitis, or nerve irritation, and may reflect issues with alignment or muscle balance.
Can hip and knee pain be connected?
Yes, the hip and knee work in close coordination. An issue in one joint can lead to referred pain, compensation patterns, or biomechanical stress in the other.
When should I see a doctor for knee and hip pain?
If pain persists beyond a few days, interferes with daily tasks, or is accompanied by joint instability, visible swelling, or tenderness, consult a healthcare professional for a complete evaluation
