Is Your Hip Pain Coming from Your Back? The Spine-Hip Connection

When you experience hip pain, it’s easy to assume the problem lies solely in your hip joint. But what if the true source of your discomfort is actually your spine? The spine and hips are intricately connected, and pain in one area can often stem from issues in the other. Understanding the spine-hip connection is key to finding the right treatment and lasting relief.
 

Understanding the Spine-Hip Relationship

Your spine and hips work together to support your body, enable movement, and maintain posture. The lower spine (lumbar region) connects directly to the pelvis and hips through a network of nerves, muscles, and joints. When one part of this system is out of alignment or under stress, it can cause symptoms to appear elsewhere - what we call “referred pain.”
 

Common Spinal Causes of Hip Pain

Several spinal issues can mimic or cause hip pain, including:
 

• Herniated or Bulging Discs: Discs in the lumbar spine can press on nearby nerves, especially the sciatic nerve, which travels from your lower back down your hips and legs. This often results in pain that radiates through the hip and buttock area.

• Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal can compress nerves, leading to pain or numbness in the hips and legs, especially when walking or standing.

• Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction: Located where the spine meets the pelvis, the SI joint can become inflamed or misaligned, producing pain that may be mistaken for a hip joint problem.

• Facet Joint Syndrome: These small joints in the back of the spine can become irritated or arthritic, leading to pain that may radiate toward the hips or thighs.

Symptoms That May Indicate a Spinal Origin

It can be difficult to distinguish between hip and spinal pain without a professional evaluation. However, symptoms that often suggest a spinal cause include:
 

• Pain that radiates from the lower back to the hip, buttock, or leg

• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg

• Discomfort that worsens with prolonged sitting or standing

• Difficulty walking or bending at the waist

Why Chiropractic Care Matters

Chiropractic care focuses on identifying and treating the root cause of pain, rather than just managing symptoms. At Atlantic Chiropractic Associates, we use advanced diagnostic tools and hands-on assessments to determine whether your hip pain originates from the spine or another source.
 

If your pain is spine-related, we may recommend:
 

• Spinal Adjustments to correct misalignments and relieve nerve pressure

• Soft Tissue Therapy to reduce muscle tension and inflammation

• Rehabilitation Exercises to strengthen supporting muscles and improve mobility

• Postural and Ergonomic Counseling to prevent future strain and injury

Find the Root Cause of Your Hip Pain at Atlantic Chiropractic Associates

Hip pain doesn’t always mean there’s a problem with the hip itself. In many cases, the spine may be the source of discomfort, particularly if nerve involvement is present. If you’re experiencing hip pain that hasn’t improved with rest or stretches, it may be time to take a closer look at your spine.
 

If you’re experiencing recurring hip pain, contact Atlantic Chiropractic Associates to schedule a comprehensive evaluation. Call (302) 309-9900 for our offices in Milford, Georgetown, or Lewes, Delaware, to book an appointment today.