Hip arthritis is a common condition that can make even the simplest movements such as walking, standing, or even getting out of a chair painful and difficult. The hip joint is one of the largest and most important joints in the body, and when arthritis develops, it can significantly affect your mobility and overall quality of life.
At Suburban Orthopaedics, our goal is to help patients manage hip pain effectively, restore movement, and get back to the life they love.
What Is Hip Arthritis?
Arthritis refers to inflammation and degeneration within a joint. In the hip, arthritis often develops over time as the protective cartilage that cushions the bones begins to wear away. This cartilage loss leads to pain, stiffness, and a decreased range of motion.
There are several types of arthritis that can affect the hip joint, but osteoarthritis is by far the most common. Other forms include rheumatoid arthritis and post-traumatic arthritis, which can occur after an injury.
Common Symptoms of Hip Arthritis
Hip arthritis can develop gradually, and symptoms may worsen over time. Common signs include:
- Pain in the hip or groin area, especially during movement
- Stiffness after sitting or resting for long periods
- Decreased range of motion or difficulty bending, walking, or standing
- Swelling and tenderness around the hip joint
- A grinding or clicking sensation in the hip during motion
- Pain radiating to the thigh, buttock, or knee
In advanced cases, the pain may persist even when resting or at night, interfering with sleep and daily comfort. Click here to learn more about Suburban Orthopedics’ approach to arthritis and its impact on the health of your joints.
What Causes Hip Arthritis?
The causes of hip arthritis can vary depending on the type, but the most common factors include:
- Age-related wear and tear: Cartilage naturally breaks down over time.
- Genetics: A family history of arthritis may increase your risk.
- Previous injuries: Hip fractures or dislocations can lead to post-traumatic arthritis.
- Obesity: Excess body weight adds stress to the hip joint, accelerating cartilage breakdown.
- Inflammatory conditions: Autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis can cause chronic inflammation in the joints.
Some patients also develop hip arthritis following repetitive stress from sports or physically demanding occupations.
Treatment Options for Hip Arthritis
The right treatment plan depends on the severity of your arthritis, your symptoms, and your overall health. At Suburban Orthopaedics, our hip specialists offer both non-surgical and surgical options to relieve pain and improve function.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Many patients find relief with conservative therapies, including:
- Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and support the joint.
- Activity Modification: Adjusting movements and routines to reduce stress on the hip.
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs or pain relievers to reduce discomfort and swelling.
- Injections: Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections can provide temporary relief for inflammation and pain.
- Weight Management: Reducing excess weight helps lessen strain on your joints.
Surgical Options
When conservative treatments no longer provide relief, surgery may be considered. Options include:
- Hip Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure to remove loose cartilage or repair tissue damage.
- Hip Replacement Surgery: In severe cases, the damaged joint may be replaced with an artificial implant designed to restore mobility and reduce pain.
Our Hip Pain Specialists are experienced in both traditional and minimally invasive surgical techniques to ensure the best outcomes possible.
Preventing and Managing Hip Arthritis
While arthritis can’t always be prevented, there are steps you can take to protect your hip health:
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the joint.
- Stay active with low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling, or yoga.
- Stretch regularly to maintain flexibility.
- Use proper posture and body mechanics during daily activities.
- Seek early treatment for injuries or joint pain before symptoms worsen.
Find Relief from Hip Arthritis at Suburban Orthopaedics
You don’t have to live with hip pain. Whether you’re managing early-stage arthritis or exploring treatment for advanced joint damage, the specialists at Suburban Orthopaedics can help. We offer comprehensive evaluations, individualized care plans, and available same-day appointments to get you the relief you need fast.
Take the first step toward a pain-free future. Schedule your appointment today with Suburban Orthopaedics.
