Hip pain doctor in San Francisco and Santa Barbara
Hip pain can make walking, sleeping and getting in and out of the car harder than it should be. Dr. Christian Guier evaluates hip problems and builds a plan to keep you moving.
Common hip problems
Hip arthritis
Wear of the joint cartilage can cause groin or thigh pain, stiffness, and trouble putting on shoes or climbing stairs.
Hip bursitis
Pain on the outside of the hip, often worse when lying on that side or climbing stairs, is commonly caused by irritated tendons and bursae.
Labral tears and hip impingement
Extra bone on the ball or socket of the hip can pinch and tear the labrum, causing deep groin pain and catching, often in active adults.
Muscle and tendon strains
Groin, hip flexor and hamstring strains are common in running and field sports.
Stress fractures
Repeated impact can cause small cracks in the hip or pelvis, especially in runners who increase their training quickly.
When to see an orthopedic surgeon
- Pain in the groin or front of the thigh
- Pain that wakes you at night
- A limp or stiffness that makes daily tasks harder
- Catching, clicking or locking in the hip
- Pain with running that keeps getting worse
Get emergency care if
You fall and can't stand or put weight on the leg, the leg looks shortened or turned outward, or the hip is hot and painful with a fever.
Christian A. Guier, MD CM, FAAOS, FACS
How Dr. Guier evaluates your hip
Dr. Guier asks where exactly the pain is and what makes it worse, then checks your walking, hip motion and strength. X-rays are often the first imaging step, with an MRI when a soft tissue injury or stress fracture is suspected.
He'll review any X-rays or MRI with you and explain what they show before discussing options.
Non-surgical care
- Activity changes and a short period of rest
- Physical therapy to strengthen the hip and core
- Anti-inflammatory medication when appropriate
- Injections when appropriate
- A cane or other walking aid for a short time
When surgery may help
If your hip needs a procedure, Dr. Guier will explain the options and connect you with the right surgical care.
Dr. Guier will walk you through every reasonable option and help you choose what fits your goals.
What patients say
Dr. Guier is professional, experienced and personable. I felt comfortable asking questions and he took care to explain options. I did not feel any time-pressure at all.
If you are looking for an 'old school' Dr. that truly cares about his patients, I highly recommend Doc Guier!
Dr. Guier goes above and beyond to provide excellent healthcare. So very grateful for his care.
Hip questions
Find out what's behind your hip pain.
Request a consultation in San Francisco, Santa Barbara or by video.
This page is for general education and isn't medical advice. For advice about your situation, request a consultation. Last updated September 2026.