Hip Pain While Sleeping? Causes You Shouldn’t Ignore
Hip pain while sleeping is a common but often overlooked problem. Many people notice discomfort when lying on their side, difficulty turning in bed, or pain that wakes them up at night. While occasional soreness may be harmless, persistent hip pain during sleep can indicate an underlying orthopaedic condition that requires attention. Understanding why hip pain occurs while sleeping, how sleeping positions affect the hips, and when to seek medical care can help you restore restful sleep and prevent long-term joint damage.
Why Does Hip Pain Get Worse at Night?
Hip pain often becomes more noticeable at night due to:
- Reduced movement, leading to joint stiffness
- Pressure on the hip joint while lying down
- Inflammation that worsens during rest
- Poor sleeping posture or mattress support
At night, the body is more sensitive to pain signals, making existing hip problems feel more intense.
Common Causes of Hip Pain While Sleeping
1. Trochanteric Bursitis
This is one of the most common causes of hip pain at night, especially in side sleepers.
What happens?
Inflammation of the bursa (fluid-filled sac) on the outer side of the hip.
Symptoms
- Pain on the outer hip
- Pain worsens when lying on the affected side
- Tenderness to touch
2. Hip Arthritis
Hip osteoarthritis occurs due to wear and tear of the hip joint cartilage.
Symptoms
- Deep groin or thigh pain
- Stiffness after rest
- Pain worsening at night or early morning
- Difficulty turning in bed
Hip arthritis commonly affects older adults but can also occur earlier due to injury or overuse.
3. Hip Labral Tear
The labrum is a ring of cartilage that stabilises the hip joint.
Symptoms
- Sharp or catching pain
- Pain during movement and while lying down
- Clicking or locking sensation
Labral tears are often seen in athletes or individuals with hip structural abnormalities.
4. Muscle or Tendon Strain
Overuse, improper exercise, or sudden movements can strain hip muscles and tendons.
Symptoms
- Dull aching pain
- Pain increases after physical activity
- Discomfort when changing sleeping positions
5. Sciatica or Lower Back Issues
Sometimes, hip pain during sleep is actually referred pain from the lower spine.
Symptoms
- Pain radiating from lower back to hip or leg
- Burning or tingling sensation
- Pain worse when lying flat
6. Hip Impingement (FAI – Femoroacetabular Impingement)
This condition occurs when abnormal bone growth causes friction in the hip joint.
Symptoms
- Pain in the groin or outer hip
- Pain during movement and at night
- Reduced hip flexibility
7. Sleeping Position–Related Hip Pain
Certain sleeping positions place excessive pressure on the hips
- Side sleeping without knee support
- Old or sagging mattress
- Poor spinal alignment
This can aggravate existing hip conditions or cause temporary pain.
Hip Pain While Sleeping on Your Side
Side sleeping is a major trigger for hip pain.
Why it happens
- Direct pressure on the hip joint
- Misalignment of pelvis and spine
What helps
- Sleeping on the pain-free side
- Using a pillow between the knees
- Choosing a medium-firm mattress
When Hip Pain at Night Is a Red Flag
Seek medical attention if you experience:
- Hip pain lasting more than 2 weeks
- Pain severe enough to disturb sleep regularly
- Pain worsening over time
- Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes
- Difficulty walking or climbing stairs
- Pain after injury or fall
These may indicate progressive joint disease or structural damage.
How Hip Pain While Sleeping Is Diagnosed
Clinical Examination
An orthopaedic evaluation includes:
- Range of motion assessment
- Gait analysis
- Pain localisation
Imaging Tests
- X-rays for arthritis or bone issues
- MRI for soft tissue injuries, labral tears, or bursitis
- Ultrasound for bursitis or tendon inflammation
Accurate diagnosis is crucial for targeted treatment.
Treatment Options for Hip Pain While Sleeping
Non-Surgical Treatments
1. Activity Modification
Avoid prolonged sitting, excessive running, or movements that worsen pain.
2. Medications
Anti-inflammatory medicines help reduce pain and swelling.
3. Physiotherapy
Strengthening and stretching exercises improve hip stability and flexibility.
4. Injection Therapy
Corticosteroid injections may relieve inflammation in conditions like bursitis or arthritis.
Surgical Treatment (When Required)
Surgery may be considered if:
- Pain persists despite conservative car
- Structural damage is present
- Daily activities and sleep quality are severely affected
Minimally invasive procedures such as hip arthroscopy or joint replacement may be recommended depending on the condition.
Best Sleeping Positions for Hip Pain Relief
Sleep on Your Back
- Place a pillow under knees
- Maintains spinal and pelvic alignment
Sleep on Your Side (Pain-Free Side)
- Use a pillow between knees
- Avoid sleeping directly on the painful hip
Avoid Sleeping on the Stomach
This position strains the lower back and hips.
Choosing the Right Mattress for Hip Pain
A supportive mattress plays a crucial role in reducing hip pain at night.
Ideal mattress
- Medium-firm support
- Even weight distribution
- Prevents sinking of hips
An old or sagging mattress can worsen hip and back pain.
Hip Pain in Younger vs Older Adults
Younger Individuals
Often due to sports injuries, impingement, or muscle strain
Older Adults
Commonly caused by arthritis, bursitis, or degenerative changes
Early diagnosis in both groups improves outcomes and prevents progression.
Can Hip Pain While Sleeping Be Prevented?
Yes, in many cases.
Preventive tips:
- Maintain healthy body weight
- Stretch regularly
- Strengthen hip and core muscles
- Use proper posture during daily activities
- Address pain early before it worsens
When to See an Orthopaedic Specialist
Consult an orthopaedic doctor if:
- Hip pain disrupts sleep consistently
- Home remedies provide no relief
- Pain limits walking or daily activities
- There is stiffness, swelling, or reduced mobility
Early specialist care ensures accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Ignore Hip Pain While Sleeping
Hip pain while sleeping is not just a discomfort it can be a sign of an underlying joint or soft tissue problem. Ignoring night-time hip pain may lead to worsening symptoms and long-term mobility issues.
If hip pain is affecting your sleep, daily activities, or quality of life, timely evaluation and appropriate treatment can help you return to pain-free movement and restful sleep.
Contact Dr. Chintan Hegde
Clinic Location: Malad, Mumbai
Call Now to Book an Appointment : +91 7738114373
Visit https://drchintanhegde.com/contact-us/
Clinic Location: Malad, Mumbai Call Now to Book an Appointment : +91 7738114373 Visit https://drchintanhegde.com/contact-us/ 
