Women experience hip pain and injuries more often than men, and not just because of sports or physical activity. Hormonal changes, unique anatomy, and biological differences can all influence how hip injuries develop and heal. Let’s explore the specific factors that make hip injuries in women distinct, and what orthopedic specialists look for when treating them.
How Female Anatomy Affects Hip Alignment and Injury Risk
Women naturally have a wider pelvis, which affects the alignment of the hips, knees, and ankles. This increased angle between the hip and knee (known as the Q-angle) can put extra stress on certain muscles and tendons around the hip joint. As a result, women may be more prone to conditions such as hip labral tears, femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), and hip instability.
Additionally, pregnancy and childbirth can stretch and strain the ligaments and soft tissues that support the hip. Over time, this may contribute to weakness, instability, or even early joint degeneration, particularly in active women or athletes.
The Role of Hormones in Women’s Hip Health
Hormones, especially estrogen, play a crucial role in maintaining bone density, muscle tone, and ligament strength. Fluctuating estrogen levels throughout a woman’s life, whether due to menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause, can affect how tissues respond to stress and recover from injury.
For instance, during the menstrual cycle, higher estrogen levels can increase joint laxity, potentially raising the risk of certain hip injuries. After menopause, declining estrogen can lead to lower bone density and slower tissue healing, making recovery from fractures or surgical procedures more challenging. Understanding these hormonal influences helps orthopedic specialists tailor treatment and rehabilitation plans to each patient’s needs.
Healing and Rehabilitation: Why Women Recover Differently
Because of these anatomical and hormonal factors, women may experience slower recovery or persistent symptoms if their treatment plan doesn’t address the causes of instability or muscle imbalance. A comprehensive rehabilitation approach often includes:
- Strengthening and stabilization exercises to improve hip and core support
- Hormone-aware recovery strategies that account for bone and soft tissue health
- Customized surgical procedures using minimally invasive hip arthroscopic techniques to restore long-term joint stability
Empowering Women Through Personalized Hip Care
Recognizing that women’s hips function and heal differently is key to effective treatment. Whether managing pain from overuse, recovering from surgery, or addressing instability after childbirth, personalized care can help restore strength and mobility.
If you’re experiencing persistent hip pain or limited movement, consult our specialists to get a diagnosis and a treatment plan designed specifically for you.
AUTHOR: Megan Flynn, MD, is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, with a focus on soft tissue injuries of the knee, shoulder, and elbow. She has extensive experience caring for athletes at all levels—from professionals to weekend warriors. Known for her advanced training, compassionate care, and dedication to education, Dr. Flynn is committed to helping patients recover and thrive while also mentoring the next generation of physicians.
AUTHOR: Benjamin G. Domb, M.D., Founder and Medical Director at American Hip Institute, is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in Sports Medicine and Hip Arthroscopy. Dr. Domb is rated among the Top Doctors in the USA by the NY Times, US News & World Report, and Castle Connolly.
