What are the symptoms of hip impingement?

Pain may appear when the hip is deeply bent, such as during squats, cycling, climbing stairs, or getting into a low chair. Turning the hip inward can reproduce discomfort, and prolonged sitting may leave the joint sore or stiff. Some people notice a click, snap, or catching sensation; others mainly feel restricted movement. Symptoms may build gradually and can affect one side more than the other.

Hip impingement is one possible cause of groin pain and hip pain. Similar symptoms can occur with a labral problem, muscle or tendon irritation, or hip osteoarthritis, so the pattern alone does not identify the condition.

Record which positions provoke symptoms and temporarily reduce deep bending, repeated pivoting, or activities that cause catching. Keep comfortable hip movement and choose lower-impact activity while arranging an assessment if symptoms persist. A clinician may check gait, strength, hip range, and movement control. Treatment may include physiotherapy, activity changes, medication or an injection; hip arthroscopy is considered only in selected cases.

Book an assessment when groin pain, clicking, or stiffness repeatedly limits sport, work, sleep, or sitting. Seek prompt care after a fall or sudden injury, or for inability to bear weight, severe pain, a hot swollen joint, fever, or new numbness or weakness.

Which movement is reproducing my symptoms? Could the labrum, cartilage, or surrounding muscles also be involved? What activities should I modify, and would physiotherapy help? When would imaging or hip arthroscopy be considered?