What to do about hip pain?

I'm 38 years old, and for the past two-three weeks have been having considerable hip pain, mainly on the left side. I can still walk decently, but have an especially tough time going up stairs.

A friend of mine says it's probably the nerve that runs down my leg that is giving me the pain. I think I am compesating for the pain on the left side, and that's leading to sore muscles on my right leg and lower back.

So, what should I do?! Are there stretching and other exercises that might help? Should I see a doctor? Chiropractor?

Thanks for your help.

(BTW: I weigh 165 pounds, so it's not any extra weight that led to the problem. In fact, I think carrying my two-year-old daughter around town and up stairs caused the injury)

cut back on the carbs and make sure you are getting enough magnesium.

(had hip pain (and hand pain) for years before I found this out, just by accident. White flour products, potatoes, corn, sugar (think of it as white death), acid-based fruit.) If I were Chinese, I'd say you have too much yang.)

If it is stress-impact related, make sure that you carry your daughter evenly. (like with a sling or back pack)

But if it continues for more than a month, I'd suggest going to see a doctor. He'll probably prescribe analgesics

serculation is cut off to your hip. go to a doctor and have it checked out. this may either be arthoritis or something serious.