• Deep pain in the hip or groin that gets worse when during activity
• Limping during or after sports
• Stiffness and trouble moving the hip as far as the other side
• A catching, locking, or clicking sensation inside the hip
• A feeling that the hip could give out or feels unsteady
• Swelling around the joint

• A deep, dull ache in the hip or groin that builds up with running or jumping
• A sharp catch or lock when moving the leg in certain ways
• A strange sensation like something is floating or stuck inside the joint

• Repeated pounding and stress on the hip joint from sports
• A previous hip condition that disrupted blood flow to the area
• A family history of weaker cartilage traits

• Do you feel a deep ache in your hip or groin that gets worse with practices and games?
• Does your hip ever catch, lock, or make a clicking sound when you move?
• Are you starting to limp or finding it hard to move your hip as freely as the other one?

Educational only — not a medical diagnosis.

1. 1Stop activities that cause pain
2. 2See a doctor or athletic trainer if hip pain, limping, or catching lasts longer than a week
3. 3Use supports like crutches only if instructed, to keep weight off the hip
4. 4Follow a planned physical therapy program to strengthen the muscles around the joint

• Can't move the hip or put any weight through the leg
• The hip locks completely and you can't get it unstuck
• Pain doesn't settle down with rest and you have a noticeable limp

• Healing takes patience, and rest is critical in the beginning
• Return to activity in steps only when cleared, staying away from high-impact moves like running and jumping at first
• Stick with the physical therapy exercises to get back full strength and motion
• Even after you're healed, you may need to adjust some activities to keep your hip healthy long-term