Question
I'd like to know if I have a hip problem or if it's something else. When I sit down and then get up and start to walk, my thigh hurts so much that it's hard for me to continue walking. The pain does go away eventually.
Answer
Hip pain is a very common problem. Fortunately for most people, this is just a minor sprain of the hip flexors (muscles) that resolves with some stretching and time. Persistent hip pain, however, is a problem that requires a doctor's visit.
When people say that their "hip hurts", they are actually often pointing to the side of their upper thigh. Localized and persistent pain in this area is not technically the hip - but the hip bursa or tendon. This almost never requires surgery and can be treated with oral anti-inflammatories, icing, stretching and physical therapy. Sometimes a cortisone injection can do wonders.
Pain in the groin or thigh region related to hip motion may actually be hip arthritis (wear and tear in the hip joint). This often needs to evaluated by an x-ray and may require surgery or physical therapy. Your doctor can best sort out your particular type of hip pain.