Hip Arthritis
Hip Arthritis Overview
Hip arthritis is a common condition that inflames and damages hip bone, cartilage, and soft tissue. Mild hip arthritis can be aggravating and uncomfortable. Moderate to severe hip arthritis can make it difficult to perform everyday movements and decrease the quality of life. Because hip arthritis is a chronic condition, treatment is centered around slowing down or stopping disease progression. An appointment with a Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates (CONA) hip specialist should be made at the first sign of hip arthritis symptoms
Symptoms & Causes:
Hip arthritis symptoms slowly develop. Key symptoms include:
- Dull, aching pain in the hip, groin, thigh or buttocks
- Decreased range of motion
- Difficulty walking, standing, getting up or sitting
- Stiffness
Hip arthritis risk factors include:
- Age (55 and older)
- Family history
- Hip anatomical abnormalities
- Hip injury
- Obesity
Common Treatments:
Nonsurgical treatment options treat the majority of cases of hip arthritis. After a thorough evaluation, a CONA hip specialist may recommend:
- Activity modification
- Assistive devices (crutches, cane, walker)
- Lifestyle modification
- Pain and anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy
Total hip replacement surgery may be recommended to treat severe hip arthritis. A CONA hip specialist removes arthritic hip bone and cartilage and bonds metal and plastic components to precisely cut bone. A new, functional hip joint that does not cause pain is created.
Diagnosis:
A CONA hip specialist uses a patient-focused diagnostic approach:
- A medical history is obtained
- Risk factors are determined
- A physical examination is performed, hip strength and range of motion are accessed
- Multiple view x-rays are ordered and analyzed
A CONA hip specialist’s accurate diagnosis is the first step toward symptom relief.