Slowing down with occasional aches and pains in your hip may be a common sign of aging. But other symptoms may indicate hip arthritis.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons says warning signs of hip arthritis include:

• Pain that starts in the thigh or groin and extends to the knee or buttock.
• Pain that worsens when you exercise vigorously.
• Difficulty bending at the hip.
• Difficulty walking.
• A grinding sound or sensation in the joint, or a tendency for the hip to stick or lock in place.
• Reduced range of motion of the hip joint, causing a limp.
• Joint pain that worsens when it rains.