24/06/2026
"Can tight hips really cause knee pain?"
Yes, they can.
The muscles around the hips attach to the pelvis and upper leg, helping to control how the leg moves when we walk, run, climb stairs, or simply stand. When these muscles become tight or weak, they can alter the alignment and movement of the knee.
The knee itself is designed to bend and straighten. It relies on the joints above and below it, the hip and ankle to move well. If the hips are restricted, the knee often has to compensate, placing extra strain on the muscles, tendons, and ligaments around the joint.
This is why knee pain isn't always a knee problem.
During a sports massage assessment, I'll often look at the hips, glutes, and surrounding muscles, even if the pain is felt solely in the knee. Improving mobility and reducing tension higher up the chain can sometimes make a significant difference to how the knee feels and functions.
So if you've been focusing all your attention on your sore knee without much improvement, it may be worth asking whether the real culprit is a little higher up.
The body is a team effort. When one area stops pulling its weight, another area often has to pick up the slack.
Find out more about the benefits of regular Sports Massage treatments: https://www.zoefostersportsmassage.co.uk