Why does hip bone pain occur after sitting for a long time, and why does it get better after walking for a while?

Oct 18, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, hip pain after prolonged sitting that improves with walking may be caused by poor local blood circulation, muscle tension or strain, hip bursitis, ischial bursitis, or mild hip arthritis. If the pain occurs frequently or worsens, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, avoid maintaining a seated position for long periods and make sure to get up and move around regularly.

Generally, hip pain after prolonged sitting that improves with walking may be caused by poor local blood circulation, muscle tension and strain, hip bursitis, ischial bursitis, or mild hip arthritis. If the pain occurs frequently or worsens, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Poor Local Blood Circulation

Prolonged sitting compresses blood vessels around the hip, slowing blood flow and causing tissue hypoxia, which leads to pain. Walking activates muscles and promotes circulation, thereby relieving pain. To prevent this, avoid prolonged sitting; stand up and move every 30 minutes and perform hip rotation exercises. Choose breathable, moderately firm seating to reduce pressure on the hips.

2. Muscle Tension and Strain

Extended sitting keeps hip muscles in a constant state of tension, leading to strain and pain. Walking helps relax and stretch these muscles, reducing discomfort. After sitting, gently mobilize the hips and softly massage tight muscles. Regularly perform exercises such as glute bridges and clamshells to strengthen hip muscles.

3. Hip Bursitis

Long-term sitting causes friction and irritation of the hip bursa, resulting in an aseptic inflammatory response. Pain worsens after sitting due to increased inflammation, but eases during walking when bursal pressure decreases. Reduce sitting duration and avoid excessive hip loading. For significant pain, topical diclofenac diethylamine gel, celecoxib capsules, or ibuprofen sustained-release capsules may be used under medical guidance, along with local heat application.

4. Ischial Bursitis

Prolonged sitting puts pressure on the ischial bursa, triggering inflammation and pain. Pain typically subsides when standing or walking, as pressure is relieved. Use soft cushions to reduce compression on the ischial tuberosity. In cases of obvious inflammation, medications such as flurbiprofen gel patches, etoricoxib tablets, or naproxen sodium tablets may be used under medical supervision. Severe cases may require surgical excision of the ischial bursa.

5. Mild Hip Arthritis

Mild wear and tear of joint cartilage triggers inflammation, causing stiffness and pain after sitting. Movement during walking promotes synovial fluid circulation, alleviating discomfort. Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the hip joint. Under medical guidance, supplements such as glucosamine hydrochloride capsules, chondroitin sulfate tablets, or hyaluronic acid injections may be beneficial. Avoid high-impact activities.

In daily life, avoid maintaining a seated position for long periods; take regular breaks to stand and move. Choose ergonomically appropriate seating to minimize hip pressure. Engage in moderate hip-strengthening exercises to enhance muscular support. Seek prompt medical attention if pain worsens, to prevent disease progression.