Hip pain is tricky. The hip joint itself sits deep under layers of muscle and tissue — making it one of the harder joints to reach with topical treatment. But here’s what most people don’t realize: a lot of what we call “hip pain” actually originates in structures that are close to the surface — and those respond very well to topical relief.
Where Is Your Hip Pain Really Coming From?
Greater Trochanteric Bursitis
Pain on the outside of the hip, over the bony prominence you can feel when you press the side of your thigh. This is inflammation of the bursa (fluid-filled cushion) and is one of the most common causes of hip pain. It’s superficial and responds excellently to topical treatment.
IT Band Syndrome
Tightness and pain along the outside of the thigh, from hip to knee. Common in runners, cyclists, and hikers. The IT band runs right under the skin — ideal for topical application.
Hip Flexor Strain
Pain in the front of the hip/groin area from tight or strained hip flexor muscles. Common in desk workers, runners, and anyone who sits for extended periods. The hip flexors are accessible to topical treatment at their origin near the front of the hip.
Gluteal Muscle Pain
Pain in the buttock region, often from tight or weak gluteal muscles. Frequently confused with hip joint pain. The glutes are large, superficial muscles — excellent candidates for topical cream.
Hip Osteoarthritis
Pain deep in the groin or front of the hip from cartilage degeneration inside the joint. This is the one condition where topical treatment has limitations — the joint capsule is deep, and active ingredients struggle to reach therapeutic concentrations at the joint surface.
What Topical Treatment Can Do
- Relieve bursitis pain — applied over the greater trochanter, menthol provides direct relief
- Relax tight muscles — hip flexors, glutes, piriformis, and IT band all respond to topical menthol
- Reduce referred pain — much hip pain is referred from surrounding muscle tension; treating the muscles reduces total pain
- Improve mobility — less muscle tension = better range of motion = less strain on the hip joint
- Support therapy — apply before stretching and exercises for better comfort and results
How to Apply for Hip Pain
- Outer hip — over the bony prominence (greater trochanter) and surrounding area for bursitis and IT band
- Front of hip — from the crease of the hip up toward the waist for hip flexor pain
- Buttock — over the gluteal muscles, especially the piriformis (deep in the center of the buttock)
- IT band — along the outside of the thigh from hip to knee
- Lower back — often contributes to hip pain; include in your application
Complementary Hip Pain Strategies
- Hip stretches — hip flexor lunges, pigeon pose, figure-four stretch
- Strengthening — gluteal bridges, clamshells, lateral band walks
- Avoid prolonged sitting — get up every 30–45 minutes
- Sleep position — place a pillow between your knees when side-sleeping
- Proper footwear — worn-out shoes change your gait and stress the hip
When to See a Doctor
- Groin pain with weight-bearing (possible hip joint issue)
- Catching, clicking, or locking sensation
- Inability to bear weight on the affected leg
- Pain following a fall (especially in older adults — rule out fracture)
- Progressive stiffness and loss of range of motion
About TPR20
TPR20 Pain Relief Cream is a topical menthol cream for temporary relief of minor aches and pains of muscles and joints. Apply generously to the outer hip, front of hip, and buttock for a cooling sensation.
The Bottom Line
Not all hip pain is created equal. While deep hip joint osteoarthritis may need more than topical treatment alone, the majority of hip complaints involve superficial structures that respond well to menthol-based creams. Identify where your pain is coming from, apply topical relief to the right area, and combine with stretching and strengthening for the best results.
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Disclaimer: TPR20 is a topical menthol cream for temporary relief of minor aches and pains of muscles and joints. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new pain management regimen.