Dear GeezerJock Doc: I recently have developed hip pain that is interfering with my ability to run. Any ideas?

Pain in the hip and groin region can originate from a variety of sources. The hip is a ball and socket joint. The ball is the end of the thigh bone called the femur. The socket is called the acetabulum. There are also many muscle groups that are involved with the movement of this joint.

Hip pain that is in the groin and is felt deeply can often be a result of osteoarthritis. This would be sensed as a deep pain often associated with stiffness that might limit the amount of motion in your hip region. This is easily diagnosed with a physical examination and x rays. Treatment might include physical therapy, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS), and activity modification.

Another common cause of groin pain is adductor muscle strains or pulls. The adductors are a group of five muscles; the major function of these muscles is to pull the legs together. A strain or tear can occur while running, sprinting, kicking or twisting. The symptoms include: groin pain, bruising, swelling or sensitivity to touch in the muscles, difficulty squeezing the legs together. Treatment would include activity modification, rest, NSAIDS, physical therapy and strengthening.

A very common cause of hip pain is actually referred pain from the back. Irritation of the nerves from a disc injury can often cause pain that radiates into the groin. This can be sorted out by seeing your health professional

Another cause of groin pain that can be a cause of concern for the athlete is a stress fracture of the hip. The stress fracture is through the neck of the ball of the hip bone. This injury usually presents with pain that is activity-related and is felt to be deep in the groin. Over time this pain may become more constant. Diagnosis is usually made with a regular x-ray. Treatment may be as simple as cessation of activity or may involve surgical repair.

A more recently diagnosed condition that is a frequent cause of long-standing or not diagnosed pain in the groin is the sports hernia. A sports hernia is a hernia that involves the lower abdominal muscles, at the point where they attach to the pelvic bones. A hernia is a weakness or bulging of the muscles. This is an injury to golfers, sprinters, soccer, rugby, hockey and tennis players. The pain comes on gradually and intensifies over time. A skilled clinician should be able to make this diagnosis. If rest and strengthening do not help, surgery is often indicated.