Tossing and turning at night because of hip pain? Nighttime hip discomfort is a common issue that can range from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing pain—often intensifying when lying down or trying to sleep. In many cases, the source is one of three conditions: bursitis, tendonitis, or arthritis. Here’s how to identify the root cause and explore effective solutions.
Why Does Hip Pain Get Worse at Night?
Nighttime hip pain can feel more intense for several reasons. As your body settles into rest, inflammation becomes more noticeable, and the reduced activity allows stiffness to set in. Pressure on inflamed joints or soft tissues while lying on your side can also aggravate pain. Understanding the root cause is key to finding long-lasting relief.
Bursitis: When Cushioning Becomes Inflamed
Hip bursitis occurs when the bursae—small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion your joints—become irritated. This is especially common in people who sleep on one side for prolonged periods. You may notice tenderness over the outer part of your hip, pain when lying on that side, or difficulty walking due to stiffness.
Tendonitis: Overuse and Strain
Tendonitis in the hip, often affecting the iliopsoas or gluteal tendons, results from repetitive movements or strain. Athletes and active individuals are particularly prone to this. The pain often worsens at night or after physical activity and can feel like a dull ache or a sharp, stabbing pain during movement.
Arthritis: Wear-and-Tear or Inflammatory
Hip arthritis, whether osteoarthritis or an inflammatory type like rheumatoid arthritis, is a leading cause of chronic hip pain. Symptoms include joint stiffness, limited range of motion, and a deep aching pain that often intensifies at night. In advanced stages, arthritis can severely impact mobility and sleep quality.
When to Seek Help from a Specialist
If hip pain disrupts your sleep for more than a few nights or worsens over time, it’s time to consult a specialist. Advanced diagnostic tools and robotic-assisted surgery now offer more precise, minimally invasive solutions for conditions like arthritis—helping restore mobility and relieve pain with faster recovery times.
AUTHOR: Dr. Christopher W. Palmer, DO, is a board-certified, fellowship-trained Orthopaedic Surgeon at Signature Medical Group in Missouri, specializing in robotic-assisted hip and knee replacement. Dr. Palmer has specialized training in the Mako SmartRobotics ™ System with a focus on compassionate, individualized patient care.
