Adult hip pain

Abstract

Hip pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal presentations in general practice. There are multiples causes of hip pain, ranging from acute to chronic and traumatic to atraumatic. In general practice, it is important to identify the cause of hip pain, as management strategies vary depending on pathology. Some diagnoses need urgent referral to secondary care, whereas others can be managed in primary care. According to the RCGP, an estimated 1-in-5 consultations are for musculoskeletal conditions, so a good knowledge of management is important. In this article, we will discuss the anatomy of the hip, the most common causes of hip pain and their management.