Hip Arthritis 

What is Hip Arthritis?

Hip arthritis is a degenerative condition characterised by the inflammation and wearing down of the hip joint. It causes pain, stiffness, and limited mobility in the hip, which can significantly impact a person’s daily activities and quality of life.

The condition occurs when the cartilage cushioning the hip joint wears away, leading to bone-on-bone contact and resulting in pain and inflammation. It commonly affects older adults but can also occur in younger individuals due to factors such as joint injury, genetic predisposition, or certain medical conditions.

The two primary types of hip arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis is a gradual breakdown of cartilage due to wear and tear over time, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation in the joints.

Three men playing golf and talking about hip arthritis treatment with Dr Jason Ward.

Causes of Hip Arthritis

Several factors contribute to the development of hip arthritis, including:

The risk of hip arthritis increases with age as the joint experiences normal wear and tear over time.

A history of hip injuries, fractures, or trauma can accelerate the degeneration of the hip joint.

Certain genetic factors can make individuals more susceptible to developing arthritis.

Structural abnormalities in the hip joint, such as hip dysplasia or femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), can lead to early-onset hip arthritis.

Certain conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or systemic lupus erythematosus, can increase the risk of developing hip arthritis.

Symptoms of Hip Arthritis

The symptoms of hip arthritis may vary in severity from person to person. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis. Common signs and symptoms include:

Persistent pain in the hip joint that worsens with activity or prolonged periods of sitting or resting.

Reduced range of motion and stiffness in the hip joint, making it challenging to perform everyday tasks like walking or climbing stairs.

Difficulty moving the hip joint, causing a noticeable limp or altered gait.

Inflammation and tenderness around the hip joint.

Sensation of clicking, popping, or grinding within the hip joint during movement.

Two golfers discussing technique on the course

Diagnosing Hip Arthritis

Diagnosing hip arthritis typically involves a combination of a medical history review, physical examination, and diagnostic imaging tests. A healthcare professional may:

Treatment

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable treatment plan based on the severity of hip arthritis and individual circumstances.

Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may help manage pain and reduce inflammation. In some cases, prescription medications or corticosteroid injections may be recommended.

A physical therapist can develop an individualised exercise program to strengthen the muscles supporting the hip joint, improve the range of motion, and alleviate pain.

Walking aids like canes or crutches may provide support and reduce stress on the hip joint during movement.

Making certain changes in daily activities can help alleviate symptoms of hip arthritis. This may include avoiding repetitive high-impact activities, maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress on the hip joint, and using proper body mechanics and posture during movements.

Applying heat or cold to the affected hip joint can help reduce pain and inflammation. Heat therapy, such as warm compresses or heating pads, can relax muscles and improve blood circulation, while cold therapy, such as ice packs, can numb the area and reduce swelling.

When conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgical intervention may be considered. Procedures such as hip arthroscopy, joint resurfacing, or total hip replacement may be recommended, depending on the severity of arthritis and the individual’s overall health.

Three men enjoying coffee outdoors, smiling together.

Diagnosing Hip Arthritis

While hip arthritis cannot always be prevented, certain measures may help reduce the risk or delay its onset:

Treatments

Hip procedures vary widely in technique and not all approaches will be suitable for all patients. Dr Jason Ward provides individualised hip treatment options suited to a range of hip conditions.

Contact Dr Jason Ward

Use our form below to book an appointment with Dr Jason Ward. Our team will get back to you to confirm your appointment details as soon as possible.

For ugent matters, please call 08 8267 8257 within office hours.