Hip Arthritis

What is Hip Arthritis?
Hip arthritis occurs when the cartilage in the hip joint begins to wear away.  This layer of cartilage that helps prevent bone to bone contact is called articular cartilage.  Arthritis of the hip or osteoarthritis is a very common injury in the obese and elderly populations, but it is not nearly as common among athletes.  It is important to catch hip arthritis early on to try and prevent surgical intervention, which in many cases of severe arthritis may include hip replacement surgery. 

Medical Definition of Hip Arthritis
Osteoarthritis of the hip is characterized by loss of articular cartilage of the hip joint.  The osteoarthritis may be primary or secondary to hip diseases during childhood, trauma, ostonecrosis, previous joint infection, or other conditions.

Synonyms
- Degenerative Arthritis of the Hip
- Osteoarthritis of the Hip

What are the symptoms of Hip Arthritis?
- Gradual onset of anterior thigh or groin pain.
- You may have pain in the buttocks or lateral aspect of the thigh.
- Initial pain typically occurs with activity but eventually it increases to point where it occurs during rest.
- As arthritis progresses you may have limited motion and a possible limp

Related Injuries
- Hip Labrum Tear
- Knee Arthritis

Treatment of Hip Arthritis
- Treatment is determined by the age of person and stage the arthritis is in.
- Proper usage of NSAIDS to help alleviate any pain.
- Physical therapy program to improve strength and range of motion.
- You may benefit from the use of a cane held in the hand opposite of the hip when walking.
- When pain persists in older patients, a total hip replacement may be needed.

Surgery
- Hip Replacement

Related Anatomy
- Hip
- Pelvis

References
Greene W.B. (Ed). (2001). Essentials of Musculoskeletal Care.Rosemont, IL: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (320-321)