The hip is a pivotal part of our bodies. A ball (femoral head) and socket (acetabulum) joint connect the thigh bone (femur) to the pelvis, the hip is then supported by muscles, ligaments, and tendons that aid movement. A cartilage known as hyaline cartilage protects the surfaces of the ball and socket.
An accident, congenital deformities or osteoporosis that compromise the joints can result in a range of common hip injuries resulting in pain, stiffness, and swelling.
The most common hip joint arthritis is known as osteoarthritis which is a degenerative joint disease. This condition is characterised by the wearing down of the cartilage at the ends of bones that enables joints to move without friction. Together with the formation of spurs and cysts this disease causes considerable discomfort and pain.
Symptoms of hip arthritis
Hip arthritis can range in severity depending on the progression of the wear and the degree to which there is bone on bone contact.
As a result, the symptoms experienced can differ and these will determine the required treatment.
Common symptoms of hip arthritis include:
- Pain in the groin and buttocks area
- Pain in the thigh in addition to referred pain in the knee area
- Painful catching and night pain
Discomfort can be spasmodic and last for a few days or weeks, however, over time, stiffness will continue to worsen resulting in limitations of movement that are permanent and progressive.
Hip arthritis treatments
Patients who experience hip joint arthritis can significantly benefit from a range of non-surgical and surgical treatments.
Non surgical options
Non-surgical options for hip arthritis sufferers work to delay and in some instances remove the need for invasive surgery. Treatments such as weight loss programs and muscle strengthening help to reduce pain and improve functionality by reducing the load carried by the hip joint, and in many instances such treatments are recommended as the first point of call before undergoing an operation.
In addition, other medical treatments including medications and injections are options offered. Depending on the severity of the damage within the hip joint, some patients benefit from the use of orthopedic products to assist with hip stability and the use of a cane or walker can help increase mobility. Many sufferers benefit from non-surgical options that work to improve symptoms despite the condition remaining.
Surgical options
Where an operation is a recommended treatment option, patients are typically advised to undergo an artificial joint replacement. This procedure is an effective and safe treatment and offers long-term pain relief from what can be a debilitating condition.
It is important to be aware that there are alternatives to this operation including a Total Hip Replacement (THR) and Hip Resurfacing in addition to other joint preserving procedures.
HOW CAN I FIND OUT MORE?
Don’t put off a visit to the Adelaide Hip Centre.
Arrange a consultation if you are living with regular hip pain and common symptoms associated with osteoarthritis.
Hip arthritis can be an uncomfortable and unpleasant condition that worsens over time without the appropriate treatment. Contact your doctor if you experience any common symptoms or pain in the hip area and request a referral to the Adelaide Hip Centre. At consultation, we will work to diagnose the severity of your arthritis by testing your hip’s range of motion. We may also recommend an X-Ray or MRI. This will help us determine the best treatment options for your individual requirements.
Contact us for any enquiries relating to hip joint arthritis.