Young Adult Hip Health · Surat 2026
Hip Pain in Young Adults Under 40: Warning Signs You Must Not Ignore
Rahul is 34 years old, a software engineer from Surat who spends 10 hours a day at his desk and plays weekend cricket. Six months ago he started feeling a dull ache in his groin after long sessions. He assumed it was a pulled muscle. He rested for two weeks. It returned.
When he finally saw an orthopaedic specialist, his MRI showed femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) with an associated labral tear — a structural problem that had been silently damaging cartilage for months. Had he come six months earlier, the treatment would have been simpler and the damage far less.
This story repeats itself constantly in orthopaedic clinics across India. Hip pain in young adults is routinely dismissed — until irreversible damage has already occurred.
When he finally saw an orthopaedic specialist, his MRI showed femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) with an associated labral tear — a structural problem that had been silently damaging cartilage for months. Had he come six months earlier, the treatment would have been simpler and the damage far less.
This story repeats itself constantly in orthopaedic clinics across India. Hip pain in young adults is routinely dismissed — until irreversible damage has already occurred.
Hip pain in young adults is frequently misdiagnosed as muscle strain for months. Early specialist assessment at Shivaan Hospital, Surat can prevent irreversible joint damage. Explore our full range of hip surgeries and joint preservation services.
The dangerous misconception
The Myth: "Hip Problems Only Happen to Old People"
Hip arthritis is associated with ageing — but the conditions that destroy young hip joints are entirely different, and they are alarmingly common among people aged 20–45 in India. None of these are age-related. All are frequently misdiagnosed as muscle strain for months. If you suspect a hip problem, our expert orthopaedic consultation and on-site MRI and CT imaging can give you an accurate diagnosis from the first visit:
Most Common
Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)
Abnormal hip bone shape causing cartilage damage during movement — especially in athletes and desk workers. Treatable with hip arthroscopy.
Urgent
Avascular Necrosis (AVN)
Death of the femoral head due to disrupted blood supply — most common in steroid users and heavy drinkers aged 25–50
Often Missed
Hip Labral Tears
Damage to the cartilage ring inside the hip socket — causes a clicking or catching sensation most patients ignore for months
Active Adults
Greater Trochanteric Bursitis
Inflammation of the outer hip bursa — common in runners, cyclists, and post-partum women. Often mistaken for IT band syndrome. Joint injections can provide rapid relief.
Athletes
Femoral Neck Stress Fracture
Microcracks in the hip bone from repetitive loading — invisible on X-ray; can displace with continued activity causing emergency surgery
Underdiagnosed
Hip Dysplasia (DDH in Adults)
A shallow hip socket that fails to fully cover the femoral head — causes chronic instability, labral overload, and early-onset cartilage wear in patients who had no symptoms in childhood
Tendon-Related
Snapping Hip Syndrome (Coxa Saltans)
A tendon snapping over a bony prominence during movement — produces an audible or felt "snap" at the front or side of the hip. Often painless initially, but can progress to bursitis if untreated
Deep Buttock Pain
Piriformis Syndrome
Compression of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle in the deep buttock — causes hip, buttock, and radiating leg pain that is routinely misdiagnosed as lumbar disc disease or true sciatica
5 warning signs
5 Hip Pain Warning Signs Young Adults Must Never Ignore
Each of the following symptoms is routinely dismissed for months. Click each sign to understand why it matters — and what it may indicate. Our sports medicine team and physiotherapy service work alongside Dr. Donda to manage these conditions comprehensively.
01
Groin pain that worsens after prolonged sitting
Pain in the groin area — deep in the crease where the thigh meets the body — is the hallmark symptom of FAI and labral tears. If your groin aches after long periods of sitting, particularly when you stand up, this is not a muscle problem. This is a structural hip joint issue that requires imaging and specialist assessment. Physiotherapy alone will not fix it.
02
A clicking, catching, or locking sensation inside the hip
If your hip "catches" mid-movement, makes a deep clicking sound (different from a superficial snap), or briefly locks when you rotate or flex it, this is a classic labral tear symptom. Many patients describe it as the hip suddenly "not working" for a split second. This mechanical symptom rarely resolves on its own and typically worsens with continued activity.
03
Hip or groin pain after sport that doesn't fully settle
Muscle soreness after exercise settles within 48–72 hours with rest. Hip joint pain from FAI, bursitis, or stress fractures often persists for days and returns with the very next training session. If hip or groin pain consistently follows sport and does not fully resolve between sessions, the cause needs investigation — not simply more rest and ice.
04
Difficulty squatting, crossing your legs, or putting on shoes
The hip joint's range of motion is reduced by FAI and labral damage before pain becomes severe. Patients notice this first as difficulty with deep squats at the gym, discomfort crossing one leg over the other, or awkwardness when sitting cross-legged on the floor. These are early functional signs of hip joint restriction — not normal ageing for a 30-year-old.
05
Hip or thigh pain present at rest or waking you at night
Night pain and pain at rest are red-flag symptoms. In young adults, persistent hip or thigh pain that wakes you at night or is present when you are not bearing weight requires urgent investigation. These symptoms can indicate avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head — a condition where the bone's blood supply is compromised and the joint is at risk of catastrophic collapse.
Know your diagnosis
5 Most Common Causes of Hip Pain in Young Adults — and the Cost of Delay
The table below summarises the most frequent orthopaedic diagnoses in patients under 40 presenting with hip pain in India — and what happens if each is left undiagnosed:
| Condition | Who Gets It | Key Pain Location | Biggest Risk if Ignored |
|---|---|---|---|
| FAI (Hip Impingement) | Athletes, desk workers 20–40 | Groin / front of hip | Labral tear, early arthritis by 40s |
| Avascular Necrosis (AVN) | Steroid users, heavy drinkers 25–50 | Deep groin and thigh | Femoral head collapse → total hip replacement |
| Hip Labral Tear | Young sportspeople, active adults | Groin + catching sensation | Progressive cartilage damage, premature OA |
| Greater Trochanteric Bursitis | Runners, cyclists, post-partum women | Outer hip / lateral thigh | Chronic pain syndrome, muscle weakness |
| Femoral Neck Stress Fracture | Distance runners, cricketers, military | Groin, worsened by activity | Displaced fracture requiring emergency surgery |
⚠ Critical Warning — Avascular Necrosis (AVN)
AVN is most common in young Indians (25–50) who take oral corticosteroids for any condition — asthma, skin disorders, autoimmune disease — or consume alcohol regularly. In Stages 1–2, core decompression (a minor day-case procedure) can save the native hip joint entirely. By Stage 3–4, the femoral head has collapsed and total hip replacement is the only option. If you are a steroid user or regular drinker with any hip or groin pain — request an MRI scan. A normal X-ray does not rule out AVN.
What tests do you need?
How Is Young Adult Hip Pain Accurately Diagnosed?
A thorough diagnosis requires more than an X-ray. Many of the most common young adult hip conditions are completely invisible on plain X-ray. Our advanced diagnostic imaging centre and musculoskeletal ultrasound service are available on-site at Shivaan Hospital. Here is what is needed and why:
Clinical Examination
FADIR, FABER, and impingement tests assess hip joint pain patterns and range of motion restriction
X-Ray (AP Pelvis + Lateral)
Identifies CAM/pincer deformity in FAI, bone cysts, severe fractures — but misses early AVN, labral tears and cartilage damage
MRI (Standard)
Detects labral tears, cartilage damage, AVN Stages 1–3, bone marrow oedema, and soft tissue inflammation
MRI Arthrogram
The most sensitive test for small labral tears not visible on standard MRI — uses contrast dye injected into the hip joint
CT Scan
Precise 3D bone mapping of the hip for surgical planning in complex FAI — identifies exact cam and pincer deformity dimensions
Bone Scan / DEXA
Identifies stress fractures (invisible on X-ray) and confirms early-stage AVN where MRI is inconclusive
Evidence-based options
Treatment Options for Young Adult Hip Pain in Surat
Treatment is tailored to your specific diagnosis and severity. Most patients start with non-surgical options. Surgery is only recommended when conservative measures fail or the structural problem requires direct correction. For a full overview of available procedures, visit our hip surgeries page.
Non-Surgical Options
Surgical Options
Physiotherapy-Guided Hip Strengthening
Targeted glute, core, and hip flexor strengthening reduces impingement forces. Must be supervised — generic gym exercises can worsen FAI symptoms if performed incorrectly. Our dedicated physiotherapy team designs stage-specific programmes for each patient.
Activity Modification and Load Management
Temporary restriction of high-impingement movements (deep squats, cycling, running) combined with low-impact exercise preserves joint health while inflammation settles. Our sports medicine team helps athletes manage load without losing fitness.
Ultrasound-Guided Corticosteroid Injection
For bursitis and impingement-related inflammation. Reduces pain rapidly and provides a window during which physiotherapy is most effective. Not a long-term solution for structural FAI. Available as part of our joint injections service.
Core Decompression for Early AVN (Stages 1–2)
A minor joint-preserving procedure that drills into the femoral head to restore blood supply and relieve pressure. The only non-replacement option capable of halting AVN progression and preventing collapse.
PRP Therapy (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
Biologic injections using the patient's own concentrated platelets to promote healing in tendon and cartilage injuries around the hip. Particularly useful for early-stage bursitis, labral irritation, and piriformis syndrome. Learn more about our PRP therapy service.
Hip Arthroscopy (Keyhole Surgery)
The gold-standard surgical treatment for FAI and labral tears. Corrects the bone deformity causing impingement and repairs or reconstructs the torn labrum through small keyhole incisions. Most athletes return to full sport within 4–6 months. Learn more about hip arthroscopy and joint preservation at Shivaan Hospital.
Minimally Invasive Muscle-Sparing Hip Surgery
For patients requiring open correction of dysplasia or complex bone deformity, our minimally invasive approach preserves surrounding muscle, reduces blood loss, and significantly shortens recovery — without compromising surgical accuracy.
Hip Resurfacing
A bone-conserving alternative to total hip replacement for younger patients (under 60) with advanced hip disease. Caps the femoral head rather than replacing it — preserving more bone and allowing higher activity levels post-surgery. Explore our hip resurfacing surgery page.
Total Hip Replacement (THR)
Reserved for end-stage disease where the hip joint is beyond preservation. Modern implants last 20+ years and allow full daily activity. In younger patients, premium bearing surfaces maximise longevity and reduce revision risk. See our total hip replacement service.
Why Surat patients choose us
Why Choose Shivaan Hospital for Young Adult Hip Pain?
Patients from South Gujarat travel to Mumbai for hip arthroscopy because they do not know it is available in Surat. Dr. Krunal Donda's fellowship training and advanced arthroscopy skills mean you no longer need to travel. Explore our complete hip surgery and joint preservation services.
Fellowship-Trained Hip Arthroscopy
Advanced keyhole hip surgery available in Surat — Dr. Donda trained at one of Europe's leading arthroplasty centres in Germany. See our hip arthroscopy page for full details.
Advanced On-Site MRI and CT Imaging
Precise diagnostic imaging including MRI arthrogram capability for the smallest labral tears not visible on standard scans
Dedicated AVN Management Clinic
Early-stage detection and core decompression for steroid and alcohol-related AVN — saving the native hip before collapse occurs
Hip Resurfacing for Young Active Patients
Bone-conserving alternative to standard THR — preserving the femoral head and enabling higher activity levels post-surgery. Details on our hip resurfacing page.
Transparent Written Treatment Plan
Every patient receives a written diagnosis, treatment options, recovery timeline, and cost estimate at the first consultation — no hidden charges. Book via our consultation service.
Second Opinion for Misdiagnosed Cases
If you've been told it's sciatica, IT band syndrome, or muscle strain for months without improvement — a specialist hip review can identify the real cause. Request a second opinion consultation.
When to act — timeline
When to See Dr. Krunal Donda Immediately
Don't wait for the pain to become unbearable. The following situations require a specialist appointment without delay:
Hip or groin pain that has lasted more than 6 weeks without a clear diagnosis — not just "muscle strain" from your GP
A clicking, catching, or locking sensation inside the hip joint — even without severe pain
You use or have used oral steroids for any condition and experience any hip or groin pain — even mild. Request an urgent MRI to rule out early AVN.
Hip pain is waking you at night or present at rest — not just after activity
You have been told it's "sciatica" or "IT band syndrome" but treatment is not working after 4+ weeks
You are an athlete whose training has been disrupted by hip pain for more than one month without full recovery. Our sports medicine team specialises in return-to-performance pathways.
Your questions answered
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions from young adult patients about hip pain, diagnosis, and treatment options at Shivaan Hospital, Surat.
Can a 25-year-old really need hip surgery?
Yes. Conditions like FAI, labral tears, and AVN regularly require surgical intervention in patients aged 20–40 in India. Hip arthroscopy for FAI and labral repair is a well-established procedure with excellent outcomes in young, active patients. The earlier surgery is performed, the better the outcomes — less cartilage damage means faster recovery and better long-term results.
What is the difference between groin strain and hip impingement?
Groin strain (adductor muscle injury) typically resolves within 2–4 weeks with rest and physiotherapy. Hip impingement (FAI) causes structural bone-on-bone contact and does not resolve with rest alone — it will keep recurring. If groin pain persists beyond 4 weeks or returns consistently with sport, an MRI and specialist assessment are essential.
Can FAI be treated without surgery?
Mild FAI with minimal cartilage damage can be managed with physiotherapy and activity modification. However, if the bone deformity is significant or cartilage damage has already occurred, arthroscopic surgery delivers the most reliable and durable relief — particularly for athletes wanting to return to high-level sport without career-limiting restrictions.
Is hip arthroscopy available in Surat?
Yes. Hip arthroscopy is available at Shivaan Hospital, Surat under Dr. Krunal Donda. Patients from South Gujarat, Navsari, Bharuch, and surrounding areas no longer need to travel to Mumbai or Ahmedabad for this procedure. A consultation with imaging review is the first step.
How is avascular necrosis (AVN) diagnosed in early stages?
Early-stage AVN (Stages 1–2) is completely invisible on X-ray. MRI is the gold standard for early detection — it shows bone marrow changes before the femoral head begins to collapse. If you are at risk (steroid use, heavy alcohol consumption, or previous hip trauma), request an MRI even if your X-ray is normal. Early detection is the difference between a minor day-procedure and a total hip replacement.
Can I return to cricket or gym after hip arthroscopy?
Yes — most athletes return to full sport within 4–6 months after hip arthroscopy for FAI and labral repair. Return-to-sport timelines depend on the extent of cartilage damage, the demands of your sport, and your adherence to the post-operative rehabilitation programme. For recovery guidance after hip surgery, see our guide to returning to the gym after hip surgery. Dr. Donda's team provides a structured return-to-sport programme from week 1.
What does hip impingement (FAI) feel like?
FAI typically causes groin pain that worsens with prolonged sitting, deep hip flexion, and sport. Many patients also notice reduced ability to squat deeply or sit cross-legged. The pain is often described as a sharp catch at the front of the hip during specific movements — rather than a constant, general ache across the hip.
How long can I wait before seeing a specialist for hip pain?
No more than 6 weeks if hip pain is affecting your daily activities, sport, or sleep. Research consistently shows that patients who receive hip arthroscopy within 12 months of symptom onset have significantly better outcomes than those who delay beyond 2 years. Every month of untreated FAI is a month of ongoing, irreversible cartilage damage. Book a consultation before the window closes.
What is the cost of hip arthroscopy in Surat?
Dr. Donda's team provides a transparent, itemised cost estimate at your initial consultation based on your specific diagnosis — whether FAI correction alone, labral repair, cartilage treatment, or a combination. The estimate is provided in writing before any financial commitment. Shivaan Hospital offers no hidden charges and discusses insurance pre-authorisation at the same appointment.
How do I book a hip pain consultation at Shivaan Hospital, Surat?
Call or WhatsApp +91 98790-99184, visit Shivaan Hospital at Infinity Tower, Lal Darwaja Station Road, Surat, or book online at shivaanhospital.com. Bring any existing MRI, CT, or X-ray reports for review at your first appointment. Same-day appointments are often available for urgent cases.
Book your consultation
Your Hip Pain Has a Name — And a Treatment.
Book a specialist hip consultation with Dr. Krunal Donda at Shivaan Hospital, Surat. Get an accurate diagnosis with the right imaging, and a clear treatment plan — before your condition progresses further.
Call / WhatsApp
+91 98790-99184
Location
Infinity Tower, Lal Darwaja Station Road, Surat
Website
shivaanhospital.com