Hip pain can develop for several reasons, including joint conditions, muscle strains, tendon irritation, and problems involving the lower back. Where you feel the pain can also vary. Some people experience tenderness along the outside of the hip, while others notice a deep ache in the groin, stiffness after resting, or discomfort that travels into the thigh.

Because these symptoms can have different underlying causes, treatment begins with understanding how your hip moves, which activities aggravate the discomfort, and whether surrounding muscles or joints may be contributing.

At Everett Spine & Rehab, physical therapy focuses on helping patients address movement limitations, improve strength and mobility, and return to daily activities with greater comfort. An individualized rehabilitation plan can help patients work toward their goals while accounting for their specific symptoms and physical needs.

What Are Common Causes of Hip Pain?

Hip pain can develop gradually or follow an injury. The location of the discomfort and activities that aggravate it may provide clues about the underlying condition.

Hip Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis develops when changes within a joint affect cartilage and surrounding tissues.

People with hip osteoarthritis often experience stiffness, reduced mobility, and pain that becomes more noticeable when walking or performing weight-bearing activities.

Discomfort may be felt in the groin, thigh, or buttock. Some people also notice stiffness after periods of inactivity.

Tendon Irritation and Muscle Strains

The hip relies on several muscle groups to support movement and stability.

Overuse, sudden increases in physical activity, or an injury can irritate muscles and tendons around the hip.

Symptoms may include localized tenderness, discomfort during specific movements, or pain after activity.

Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome

Pain along the outside of the hip can occur when tissues surrounding the greater trochanter, the bony prominence on the upper thighbone, become irritated.

This condition is often associated with discomfort when lying on the affected side, climbing stairs, or walking.

Referred Pain From the Lower Back

Sometimes discomfort felt near the hip originates from structures in the lower back.

Certain spinal conditions can produce pain that travels into the buttock, hip, or leg.

This is one reason a thorough evaluation should consider the surrounding joints, muscles, and spine rather than examining hip movement alone.

Does Age or Gender Affect Your Risk of Hip Pain?

Hip pain can affect people of all ages, although certain conditions become more common as we get older. Age-related changes in joint cartilage, reduced muscle strength, and decreased flexibility can contribute to hip discomfort, particularly in adults over 50. Gender can also influence the types of hip problems people experience. For example, women are more likely than men to develop greater trochanteric pain syndrome, a condition that causes tenderness and pain along the outside of the hip, particularly during middle age and later life. Hormonal changes, differences in hip anatomy, and tendon health may contribute to this increased risk. However, younger adults and men can also experience hip pain from sports injuries, repetitive movements, muscle strains, and other conditions. Regardless of age or gender, persistent hip pain that interferes with walking, sleeping, or everyday activities deserves a professional evaluation.

Hip Pain Symptoms You Should Pay Attention To

Hip discomfort can present in several ways.

Common complaints include:

• Groin pain when walking or bending the hip
• Tenderness along the outside of the hip
• Stiffness after getting out of bed
• Pain when climbing stairs or walking uphill
• Discomfort when standing up from a chair
• Difficulty getting in or out of a car
• Pain when lying on the affected side
• Reduced flexibility or difficulty putting on shoes
• Aching that spreads toward the thigh or buttock

The NHS guidance on hip pain explains that symptoms may be associated with arthritis, tendon irritation, strains, and several other conditions.

If hip pain is worsening, repeatedly returning, disrupting sleep, or interfering with daily activities, a professional evaluation is recommended.

Seek urgent medical attention for severe pain after an injury, inability to bear weight, or a hot, swollen hip accompanied by fever.

Why Does My Hip Hurt When I Walk or Climb Stairs?

Walking and climbing stairs require coordinated movement of the hip joint and surrounding muscles.

During these activities, the hip must support body weight while the muscles around the pelvis help maintain stability.

If the hip joint is irritated, mobility is restricted, or certain muscles are weak or painful, these movements may become uncomfortable.

Stair climbing can be particularly challenging because it requires greater hip and leg muscle effort than walking on level ground.

The location of your symptoms can help guide an examination, but imaging or additional medical testing may sometimes be necessary to identify the underlying cause.

How Can Physical Therapy Help With Hip Pain?

Physical therapy may help address certain causes of hip pain by improving strength, flexibility, movement control, and the ability to perform everyday activities.

At Everett Spine & Rehab, a rehabilitation evaluation may include assessing walking patterns, joint mobility, muscle strength, balance, and activities that reproduce symptoms.

Depending on the findings and your individual needs, treatment may incorporate several approaches.

Strengthening Exercises

Strengthening the muscles surrounding the hip can help improve joint support and movement control.

Exercises may focus on the gluteal muscles, hip abductors, hip flexors, and other supporting muscle groups.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons explains that strengthening the muscles supporting the hip helps promote joint stability and can be useful in rehabilitation.

Mobility and Flexibility Exercises

Restricted hip movement can make activities such as sitting, walking, or bending more difficult.

Appropriate mobility exercises may help improve flexibility and make certain daily movements more comfortable.

Balance and Movement Training

Some patients benefit from exercises designed to improve balance, walking mechanics, and coordination.

For example, a person struggling with stairs may work on controlled step movements and strengthening activities that reflect their functional goals.

Activity Modifications

Your rehabilitation provider may also recommend temporary adjustments to certain activities while symptoms improve.

These changes may include modifying exercise intensity, limiting movements that aggravate pain, or incorporating appropriate rest and recovery periods.

Exercise selection and progression should reflect the underlying condition and the patient’s response to treatment.

What Can You Do at Home for Mild Hip Pain?

If your symptoms are mild and you have no warning signs, several general strategies may help you remain comfortable while arranging an evaluation if needed.

Try changing positions regularly rather than sitting for extended periods. Gentle walking or other tolerable movement may help reduce stiffness, but avoid repeatedly pushing through painful activities.

If lying on one side increases discomfort, adjusting your sleeping position or placing a pillow between your knees may help.

Choose activities that feel manageable and avoid starting aggressive stretches or strengthening routines before understanding the cause of your symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can physical therapy help hip pain when walking?

Physical therapy may help when hip pain is associated with conditions that respond to strengthening, mobility exercises, and movement retraining. The appropriate approach depends on the diagnosis and severity of symptoms.

Why does my hip hurt when I stand up after sitting?

Hip stiffness, joint irritation, and certain tendon or muscle conditions can make the transition from sitting to standing uncomfortable. Persistent pain should be evaluated to determine the cause.

Can hip pain actually come from my back?

Yes. Some conditions affecting the lower spine can produce discomfort felt in the buttock, hip, or leg. A clinician can assess whether symptoms appear to originate from the hip joint, surrounding tissues, or another area.

How long does physical therapy take for hip pain?

The length of treatment varies depending on the condition, symptom severity, functional limitations, and individual progress. Some patients improve within several weeks, while others require a longer rehabilitation program.

Should I keep walking if my hip hurts?

Gentle walking may be appropriate for some conditions, but significant or worsening pain should not be ignored. If walking causes limping, increasing discomfort, or difficulty bearing weight, seek professional guidance. Sudden inability to bear weight requires urgent medical care.

Physical Therapy and Hip Rehabilitation in Everett, WA

Hip pain can affect your ability to exercise, work, and enjoy everyday activities, particularly when walking and climbing stairs become uncomfortable.

Everett Spine & Rehab offers physical therapy and rehabilitation services for patients experiencing appropriate musculoskeletal conditions, including certain causes of hip pain.

We serve patients throughout Everett, Mukilteo, Mill Creek, Marysville, Lynnwood, and nearby Snohomish County communities.

If persistent hip pain is interfering with your daily routine, contact Everett Spine & Rehab to schedule an evaluation and learn about available rehabilitation options.

References

1. NHS: Hip Pain in Adults
2. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Hip Conditioning Program

While headaches can develop for several reasons following a collision, they should never be automatically dismissed as ordinary tension or stress. A headache after an accident may be associated with a neck injury, whiplash, concussion, or another condition requiring medical attention.

Understanding the possible causes and accompanying symptoms can help you recognize when an evaluation is necessary.

Why Do Headaches Happen After a Car Accident?

During a collision, the sudden force can cause your head and neck to move rapidly, placing stress on muscles, joints, ligaments, and other structures.

Depending on the circumstances, several conditions may contribute to post-accident headaches.

1. Whiplash and Neck Injuries

Whiplash occurs when the neck is subjected to a rapid acceleration and deceleration movement, commonly associated with rear-end collisions.

Symptoms can include:

• Neck pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility
• Headaches beginning near the base of the skull
• Tenderness across the shoulders and upper back
• Discomfort when turning the head
• Muscle tightness or spasms

Some people notice neck discomfort immediately, while others develop symptoms later.

2. Cervicogenic Headaches

A cervicogenic headache originates from a problem affecting structures in the cervical spine, or neck.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, this type of headache may begin at the back of the head and extend toward the forehead or behind an eye.

Common symptoms include one-sided headaches, reduced neck movement, and pain that worsens when moving the neck.

Because these headaches can resemble other headache disorders, identifying the underlying cause requires a professional evaluation.

3. Concussion or Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

A concussion can happen when a sudden impact or rapid movement causes the brain to move within the skull. You do not necessarily have to strike your head directly to sustain a concussion.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identifies headaches, dizziness, nausea, sensitivity to light, concentration difficulties, and changes in sleep among potential concussion symptoms.

These symptoms can appear immediately or develop hours or days after the injury.

Anyone experiencing a new headache following a collision should receive an appropriate medical assessment, especially if other concussion symptoms are present.

What Does a Whiplash Headache Feel Like?

People with neck-related headaches often describe an aching sensation beginning near the upper neck or back of the skull. The discomfort may spread toward the temples, forehead, or behind one eye.

You may also notice that:

• Turning your head increases the discomfort.
• Your neck feels unusually tight when you wake up.
• Sitting at a desk or driving makes symptoms more noticeable.
• Headaches occur alongside shoulder or upper-back stiffness.

However, headache location alone cannot determine whether whiplash, concussion, or another condition is responsible.

When Should You Be Concerned About a Headache After an Accident?

Headaches following trauma deserve medical attention, particularly when they are new, persistent, or worsening.

Seek emergency medical care immediately if you experience a headache that gets progressively worse and will not go away, repeated vomiting, unusual confusion, weakness, slurred speech, seizures, or difficulty staying awake.

These symptoms may indicate a potentially serious brain injury. The CDC’s concussion guidance explains these warning signs in greater detail.

If symptoms are stable but continue after the accident, arrange a prompt medical evaluation rather than waiting to see whether the problem disappears.

Can Chiropractic Care Help With Headaches After a Car Accident?

For certain patients, headaches associated with neck dysfunction may respond to conservative treatment after serious injuries and other medical causes have been evaluated.

At Everett Spine & Rehab, care for appropriate musculoskeletal injuries may involve assessing neck movement, muscle tenderness, joint function, and other physical limitations associated with the collision.

Depending on the diagnosis and medical clearance, treatment may include chiropractic care, therapeutic exercises, mobility work, or rehabilitation.

Patients with suspected concussion, serious cervical injury, or neurological symptoms require appropriate medical assessment and management before considering cervical manipulation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it normal to have headaches days after a car accident?

Headaches can appear hours or days after a collision, particularly when neck injuries or concussion are involved. Although delayed symptoms can occur, a new headache after trauma should be evaluated rather than assumed to be harmless.

Can whiplash cause headaches without severe neck pain?

Yes. Some people experience headaches as a prominent symptom of a neck-related injury even when neck pain is relatively mild. Other conditions can cause similar symptoms, so an assessment is necessary.

How long do headaches last after a car accident?

Recovery depends on the underlying injury, symptom severity, and individual health factors. Some headaches resolve relatively quickly, while others persist and require additional assessment or treatment.

Should I see a chiropractor for a headache after an accident?

Start with a medical evaluation to rule out concussion, serious neck injuries, and other complications. When headaches are associated with an appropriate musculoskeletal condition, chiropractic care or rehabilitation may be considered as part of a treatment plan.

Auto Accident Injury Care in Everett, WA

Headaches following a car accident can interfere with work, sleep, driving, and everyday activities. Finding out what’s causing your symptoms is an important first step toward appropriate care.

Everett Spine & Rehab provides chiropractic and rehabilitation services for patients dealing with musculoskeletal injuries following auto accidents.

We serve Everett and surrounding Snohomish County communities, including Mukilteo, Mill Creek, Marysville, and Lynnwood.

Contact Everett Spine & Rehab to learn more about our auto accident injury services or schedule an evaluation following appropriate medical assessment.

References

1. Cleveland Clinic: Cervicogenic Headache
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Symptoms of Mild TBI and Concussion

You may also hear terms such as herniated disc, ruptured disc, disc bulge, pinched nerve, or sciatica.

They are related, but they do not all describe exactly the same thing.

Understanding the basics can make a diagnosis much less confusing and help you better understand your treatment options.

What Does a Spinal Disc Do?

Your spine is made of stacked bones called vertebrae. Between many of those bones are flexible discs that act as cushions and help the spine absorb force while you move.

Each spinal disc has two main parts:

• A softer, gel-like center called the nucleus
• A tougher outer layer called the annulus

You can think of the disc as a shock-absorbing cushion between two vertebrae. These discs help your spine bend, twist, and handle the forces created by everyday movement.

What Is a Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc occurs when some of the softer material inside a spinal disc pushes through a tear or weakened area in the outer portion of the disc.

According to the Mayo Clinic, a herniated disc can irritate or compress a nearby nerve, potentially causing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness.

A herniated disc can occur anywhere along the spine, although it is especially common in the lower back. Herniated discs can also occur in the neck.

Does a Disc Actually “Slip”?

“Slipped disc” is a common everyday term for a herniated disc, but the disc itself generally does not slide out of position.

Instead, material from inside the disc pushes outward through or into the tougher outer layer.

Other terms you may hear include:

• Herniated disc
• Ruptured disc
• Protruding disc
• Disc extrusion
• Bulging disc

Imaging reports can sound highly technical, so your symptoms and physical examination remain important when determining whether a disc finding is actually contributing to your pain.

Herniated Disc vs. Bulging Disc

A bulging disc and a herniated disc describe different patterns of disc displacement.

Bulging Disc

With a bulging disc, a broader portion of the outer disc extends outward beyond its usual boundary.

Herniated Disc

With a herniated disc, material from the softer center pushes farther into or through a weakened area in the outer layer.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons explains that disc problems may be described using terms such as bulging, protruding, or herniated depending on the pattern and extent of disc displacement.

It is also important to know that imaging findings do not always match the severity of a person’s symptoms. Some people have a herniated disc without experiencing pain at all.

What Does a Herniated Disc Feel Like?

Symptoms depend on where the affected disc is located and whether it is irritating or compressing a nearby nerve.

Herniated Disc in the Lower Back

Possible symptoms may include:

• Low-back pain
• Buttock pain
• Pain traveling down one leg
• Tingling or numbness
• Leg weakness
• Sciatica-like symptoms

Pain caused by nerve irritation may sometimes feel sharp, burning, electric, or radiating rather than remaining confined to the lower back.

Herniated Disc in the Neck

A cervical herniated disc may cause:

• Neck pain
• Shoulder pain
• Pain traveling into an arm
• Tingling in the hand or fingers
• Numbness
• Arm or hand weakness

What Causes a Herniated Disc?

Disc changes often develop gradually rather than happening during one dramatic event.

As spinal discs age, they can lose some of their flexibility and become more vulnerable to tearing or degeneration.

Other possible contributors include:

• Heavy lifting
• Repeated bending
• Twisting while lifting
• Physically demanding work
• Previous spine injuries
• Falls or trauma
• Repetitive stress on the spine

The Mayo Clinic notes that many people cannot identify one specific event that caused their herniated disc.

Does a Herniated Disc Always Require Surgery?

Most people with a herniated disc do not automatically require surgery.

Symptoms may improve with conservative treatment and time. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons notes that nonsurgical treatment is generally the initial approach for most lumbar herniated discs.

Depending on your symptoms and examination findings, conservative treatment may involve:

• Activity modification
• Physical therapy
• Therapeutic exercise
• Medication recommended by a physician
• Chiropractic care when clinically appropriate
• Spinal decompression when appropriate for the individual patient

At Everett Spine & Rehab, treatment can be coordinated across chiropractic care, physical therapy, and spinal decompression based on the patient’s symptoms, examination findings, and overall health history.

How Physical Therapy Can Help With Disc-Related Pain

Physical therapy may be helpful when a disc problem has affected your strength, mobility, posture, or ability to perform normal activities.

A physical therapy program may focus on:

• Improving spinal and hip mobility
• Strengthening muscles that support the spine
• Improving movement mechanics
• Gradually returning to work or exercise
• Reducing movements that repeatedly aggravate symptoms

The goal is to improve function while helping you move more comfortably and confidently.

When Are Herniated Disc Symptoms More Concerning?

Some symptoms require prompt medical attention.

Seek medical evaluation if back or neck pain is accompanied by significant weakness, progressive numbness, or increasing difficulty walking.

Loss of bowel or bladder control, numbness around the groin or inner thighs, or rapidly worsening neurological symptoms require urgent medical attention.

Frequently Asked Questions About Herniated Discs

Can a herniated disc heal?

Symptoms from many herniated discs improve over several weeks or months. The body may gradually reduce or reabsorb some of the herniated disc material over time. Recovery depends on the location of the disc, severity of symptoms, nerve involvement, activity level, and other individual factors.

Can a herniated disc cause sciatica?

Yes. A herniated disc in the lower back can irritate nerve roots that contribute to the sciatic nerve. This may cause pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness that travels from the lower back or buttock into the leg.

Learn more about sciatica from the Mayo Clinic.

Do I need an MRI to know if I have a herniated disc?

An MRI can provide detailed images of spinal discs, nerves, and other soft tissues, but imaging is not always required immediately. Your healthcare provider can determine whether imaging is appropriate based on your symptoms, physical examination, injury history, and response to conservative care.

Herniated Disc Treatment in Everett, WA

If back pain, neck pain, sciatica, tingling, numbness, or radiating pain is interfering with everyday life, the first step is understanding what may be causing your symptoms.

Everett Spine & Rehab provides chiropractic care, physical therapy, spinal decompression, and injury rehabilitation in Everett, WA for patients dealing with disc-related pain and mobility problems.

We also serve patients throughout Snohomish County, including Mill Creek, Lynnwood, Mukilteo, Lake Stevens, Marysville, Snohomish, Edmonds, Bothell, Monroe, and Mountlake Terrace.

Call Everett Spine & Rehab at (425) 347-8614 to schedule an evaluation and learn which treatment options may be appropriate for you.

Sources

• Mayo Clinic: Herniated Disk, Symptoms and Causes
• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Herniated Disk in the Lower Back
• Mayo Clinic: Sciatica, Symptoms and Causes

After getting injured at work, staying alert to specific symptoms can really help spot and tackle possible issues early on.

Did you slip and fall at work? Did something hit you? Musculoskeletal injuries, such as strains or sprains, often present with swelling, bruising, restricted movement, and persistent pain. Seeking medical assistance is essential to determine the severity of the injury, as certain sprains or strains might necessitate imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs to rule out fractures or tears. Failing to diagnose or treat these injuries properly could result in chronic pain, decreased range of motion, or long-term disability.

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) or concussions commonly occur at the workplace due to falls, collisions, or impacts to the head during tasks or accidents manifest through symptoms like headaches, dizziness, confusion, nausea, and sensitivity to light or sound. Seeking immediate medical attention for a concussion is critical to assess the severity of the injury and ensure proper management. Undiagnosed or untreated concussions can lead to long-term cognitive impairments or persistent symptoms known as post-concussion syndrome.

Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs), prevalent in desk-based or repetitive motion jobs, often exhibit symptoms like tingling, numbness, weakness, stiffness or discomfort in the affected areas, such as the hands, wrists, fingers, forearms, elbows and arms. Consulting a healthcare professional is vital to prevent the progression of these injuries into chronic conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome. Physical therapy or ergonomic adjustments may be prescribed to manage symptoms, prevent worsening, and facilitate a quicker return to work.

Burns or cuts sustained at work can sometimes lead to infections. Signs of infection include increased redness, warmth, swelling, or discharge from the wound. Seeking medical attention promptly is crucial to prevent complications like sepsis or deeper tissue infections. In certain cases, doctors might recommend specialized wound care, antibiotics, or surgical intervention to avoid further complications.

A timely medical evaluation and treatment post-injury are imperative to prevent potential long-term consequences. Doctors can provide an accurate diagnosis, create a tailored treatment plan, and recommend necessary rehabilitative services like physical therapy or chiropractic care. These therapies aid in restoring functionality, reducing pain, and preventing recurrent injuries, facilitating a more effective and complete recovery to help individuals return to work safely and efficiently. Ignoring symptoms or delaying medical attention could exacerbate injuries, prolong recovery time, and lead to chronic issues that may impact an individual’s ability to perform their job effectively.

Chiropractic Care and Physical Therapy in Snohomish County

At our Everett Spine & Rehab, we’re committed to aiding in your post-workplace injury recovery journey. After our comprehensive evaluation, we will create a plan that may include a combination of physical therapy, specialized chiropractic care, and targeted massage therapy, depending on your needs. Our team is dedicated to restoring your well-being, enhancing mobility, and facilitating a swift return to work, providing personalized care every step of the way.

Car accidents can result in various hidden health issues that may not be immediately apparent but can be quite detrimental in the long run. Some common ones include:

Whiplash: Whiplash occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and then backward, straining the neck’s muscles and ligaments. Symptoms like neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and even cognitive issues may not manifest immediately but can become chronic if left untreated.

Concussion: A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that can occur when the head is jolted or struck during a car accident. Symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, memory problems, and headaches may not show up right away, and their severity can vary.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): The psychological impact of a car accident can lead to PTSD, which may not become apparent until days or weeks later. Symptoms can include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and depression.

Soft Tissue Injuries: Injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, often referred to as soft tissue injuries, can develop over time. These injuries may initially present as minor discomfort but can worsen without proper treatment.

Internal Injuries: Internal injuries, such as bleeding or organ damage, may not show immediate symptoms but can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated promptly.

Delayed Pain: Pain from injuries to the back, shoulders, or hips may not be felt immediately due to the body’s adrenaline response after an accident. However, this pain can emerge days or even weeks later and may require medical attention.

Emotional and Psychological Trauma: Emotional distress, anxiety, and depression can develop gradually after an accident, impacting one’s overall well-being and quality of life.

Nerve Damage: Nerve damage may not be immediately evident but can result in numbness, tingling, or weakness in affected areas, requiring medical evaluation and treatment.

Internal Bleeding: Internal bleeding may not manifest externally but can lead to symptoms like weakness, dizziness, or swelling in the abdomen. It is a serious medical concern that needs immediate attention.

Spinal Injuries: Injuries to the spinal cord may not be immediately apparent, but they can result in paralysis or long-term mobility issues if not treated promptly.

Car Accident Rehabilitation in Everett, Wa

If you’ve been involved in a car accident, it is of paramount importance to prioritize your health and well-being. Seeking immediate medical evaluation by a doctor is essential, as they can accurately assess your condition and provide necessary treatment. In some cases, your doctor may refer you to specialists like chiropractors or physical therapists to address specific issues and aid in your recovery. Remember that your health is your most valuable asset, and seeking professional care is the first step towards a full and speedy recovery. If you live in Snohomish County, please consider calling Everett Spine and Rehab – we are a one-stop center for car and work injurie rehabilitation with chiropractic, massage and physical therapy services.

Sources:

Mayclinic.org
findlaw.com
healthcentral.com