Hip pain is a common but often misunderstood condition that can affect people of all ages and activity levels. Because the hip is a deep, weight-bearing joint, even mild discomfort can interfere with walking, sitting, standing, climbing stairs, sleeping, and exercise.
Physical Therapy for hip pain focuses on identifying the source of pain and restoring how the hip—and the rest of the body—moves and functions, not just masking symptoms.
Understanding Hip Pain
The hip is a ball-and-socket joint formed by the head of the femur fitting into the pelvis. It relies on surrounding muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and bursae to support movement and absorb stress.
Hip pain can develop when any of these structures become irritated, overworked, weak, or poorly coordinated. In many cases, hip pain is influenced by how the spine, pelvis, knees, and ankles move together—not just the hip joint itself.
Hip Pain Assessment and Physical Therapy
At OSI Physical Therapy, treatment for hip pain is guided by licensed physical therapists who understand anatomy, biomechanics, and injury patterns. Your therapy plan is designed to work with your body—not against it.
Forest Lake Clinic
146 N. Lake St., Suite 200 Forest Lake, MN
55025
Hugo Clinic
14688 Everton Ave N, #101 Hugo, MN
55038
West Saint Paul
433 East Mendota Road West Saint Paul, MN
55118
Maplewood Clinic
2515 White Bear Avenue Maplewood, MN
55109
Oakdale Clinic
7077 10th St. N. Oakdale, MN
55128
Shoreview Clinic
404 Highway 96 West Suite C Shoreview, MN
55126
Somerset Clinic
709 Rivard, Street Somerset, WI
54025
Stillwater Clinic
1700 Tower Drive West Stillwater, MN
55082
White Bear Lake Clinic
4463 White Bear Parkway #108 White Bear Lake,
MN 55110
Common Causes of Hip Pain
Hip pain does not always originate from the joint alone. Contributing factors may include:
- Muscle weakness or imbalance in the hips, glutes, or core
- Tendon irritation or overuse
- Joint degeneration, such as osteoarthritis
- Inflammation, including bursitis
- Referred pain from the lower back or pelvis
- Changes in walking or movement patterns
Because the hip works as part of a connected system, dysfunction in one area can gradually overload the hip and lead to pain.
Why Physical Therapy for Hip Pain Works
Physical therapy addresses how the hip moves, loads, and adapts during daily life—not just where it hurts.
Rather than relying on rest, medication, or generalized advice, physical therapy focuses on:
- Identifying movement and strength deficits
- Improving joint and soft-tissue mobility
- Restoring efficient walking, standing, and lifting mechanics
- Reducing strain on irritated structures
- Preventing recurrence and future injury
This approach supports long-term improvement rather than short-term relief.
Benefits of Physical Therapy for Hip Pain
- Reduces pain and inflammation naturally
- Improves hip strength, stability, and mobility
- Restores confidence with walking, sitting, and daily movement
- Helps avoid or delay surgery when appropriate
- Supports recovery before or after surgical procedures
- Reduces the risk of recurring hip problems
Early, targeted physical therapy is supported by clinical research and professional guidelines as an effective treatment for many hip conditions.
Hip Pain Conditions Treated with Physical Therapy
Our licensed physical therapists treat a wide range of hip-related conditions, including:
- Hip osteoarthritis
- Hip bursitis
- Muscle strains or imbalances
- Sports-related hip injuries
- Labral injuries (conservative care)
- Work-related hip strain
- Balance and gait issues
- Post-surgical hip rehabilitation
Every condition requires an individualized plan—there are no generic programs and no one-size-fits-all approach.
What to Expect During Physical Therapy for Hip Pain
Comprehensive Evaluation
Your first visit includes a thorough assessment of:
- Posture and movement patterns
- Hip strength, flexibility, and control
- Helps avoid or delay surgery when appropriate
- Supports recovery before or after surgical procedures
This evaluation helps determine why the hip is painful—not just where.
Personalized Treatment Plan
Your care plan may include:
- Hands-on therapy to improve joint and soft-tissue mobility
- Guided strengthening and movement retraining
- Neuromuscular re-education
- Postural and ergonomic guidance
- Gradual return to activity strategies
All treatment is tailored to your body, symptoms, and goals.
What is a Physical Therapist – Led Bike Fitting?
Adults & Workers
For individuals with desk jobs, physically demanding work, or long commutes, therapy focuses on posture, load management, and movement efficiency.
Seniors
For older adults, hip pain therapy emphasizes balance, fall prevention, joint protection, and maintaining independence.
Athletes
Athletes receive sport-specific rehabilitation focused on strength, power, and safe return to performance.
Post-Surgical Patients
After hip replacement or arthroscopic surgery, physical therapy is essential for restoring mobility, strength, and confidence in movement.
Why Choose OSI Physical Therapy for Hip Pain?
Experience
OSI Physical Therapy has helped thousands of patients recover from hip pain using evidence-based, hands-on care.
Expertise
Our licensed physical therapists are trained in orthopedic and movement-based rehabilitation.
Individualized Care
Every patient receives one-on-one treatment designed specifically for their condition and goals.
Trusted Provider
With clinic locations across Minnesota and Wisconsin, OSI Physical Therapy is known for patient-centered, compassionate care.
Take the Next Step Toward Relief
Hip pain does not have to limit your life.
Physical Therapy for hip pain provides a safe, effective, and personalized approach to restoring movement and reducing pain. If you live in Minnesota or Wisconsin, OSI Physical Therapy is here to help you move better—with confidence and care.
FAQs About Hip Pain Physical Therapy
Many patients notice improvement within 2–4 weeks, depending on the condition, consistency, and severity of symptoms.
Stretching may be beneficial for some individuals, but stretching the wrong tissues or overstretching irritated structures can increase pain. Professional guidance is important.
Ready to Start Your Recovery Journey?
Don't let pain hold you back. Our physical therapy team is here to help you get back to the activities you love.