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Hip Osteoarthritis

Person with hands on hips

What is Hip Osteoarthritis?

Hip osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint condition that affects the ball-and-socket joint of the hip. The hip is the second largest weight-bearing joint in the body, following the knee. It consists of the acetabulum (the socket in the pelvis) and the femoral head (the ball at the upper end of the thigh bone).

A layer of smooth cartilage covers these joint surfaces, allowing frictionless movement. However, with OA, this cartilage gradually deteriorates, causing the bones to rub against each other, leading to joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. As the condition progresses, bone spurs may develop, further contributing to discomfort and impaired function.

Causes of Hip Osteoarthritis

While there is no single cause for hip osteoarthritis, several factors can increase the risk of developing the condition:
  • Aging: The risk of OA increases as the cartilage naturally wears down over time.
  • Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis may predispose individuals to the condition.
  • Previous Hip Injuries: Trauma or fractures can accelerate joint degeneration.
  • Obesity: Excess body weight places additional stress on the hip joint, contributing to cartilage breakdown.
  • Developmental Hip Conditions: Structural abnormalities, such as developmental dysplasia of the hip, may increase susceptibility.

Symptoms of Hip Osteoarthritis

Hip OA symptoms may persist or worsen intermittently. Common signs include:
  • Hip Pain: Discomfort is often felt in the groin area but may radiate to the outer thigh or upper buttock. Pain may intensify with prolonged standing, walking, or after periods of inactivity.
  • Joint Stiffness: Reduced mobility makes tasks like putting on socks or tying shoes difficult.
  • Crepitus: Clicking, cracking, or grinding noises during hip movement.
  • Muscle Weakness: Reduced activity due to pain can lead to muscle deconditioning, further affecting joint stability.

Diagnosis of Hip Osteoarthritis

A healthcare provider will assess hip osteoarthritis through:
  • Medical History and Physical Examination: Evaluating symptoms, joint flexibility, and muscle strength.
  • Imaging Tests: X-rays help identify joint space narrowing, bone spurs, and other structural changes. In some cases, additional imaging may be required to rule out other conditions.

Non-Surgical Treatment for Hip Osteoarthritis

Many individuals manage hip OA effectively with non-surgical interventions, including:
  • Activity Modification: Avoiding or adjusting activities that worsen symptoms.
  • Weight Management: Reducing body weight to decrease stress on the hip joint.
  • Physiotherapy: Strengthening exercises improve joint support and mobility.
  • Pain Management: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can help reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Joint Injections: Corticosteroid injections may provide temporary pain relief.
  • Walking Aids: Using a cane (on the opposite side of the affected hip) can reduce joint strain.

Surgical Treatment for Hip Osteoarthritis

If non-surgical methods do not provide sufficient relief, surgery may be considered. Options include:

Hip Preservation Surgeries
  • Hip Osteotomy: The femur or pelvis is repositioned to shift weight away from damaged cartilage, delaying further degeneration.
  • Hip Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure to remove loose cartilage fragments or bone spurs.
  • Hip Arthrotomy: A procedure to access the joint and remove bone abnormalities or repair fractures.

Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis)
In severe cases, the hip joint may be surgically fused using pins or rods to eliminate movement and pain. However, this results in permanent joint stiffness, affecting mobility.

Hip Replacement Procedures
  • Total Hip Replacement (Arthroplasty): The damaged femoral head and acetabulum are replaced with artificial implants, restoring joint function.
  • Partial Hip Replacement: Involves replacing only the femoral head, often performed for patients with hip fractures.
  • Hip Resurfacing: The femoral head is reshaped and capped with a prosthetic, preserving more of the patient’s natural bone structure.

Conclusion

Managing hip osteoarthritis requires a tailored approach based on the severity of symptoms and lifestyle factors. Early intervention with lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, and pain management can help delay the need for surgical treatment. If pain and mobility issues persist, a healthcare professional can discuss surgical options to restore function and improve quality of life.

Further information

Last updated24 Apr 2025