Hip Osteoarthritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Reviewed By – Dr. Sameer Gohir
PhD, MSc, PG Cert MSK ultrasound, PG Cert. Non-Medical Prescribing, MCSP, MAPPN

What Is Hip Osteoarthritis?

Hip osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the gradual wearing away of cartilage in the hip joint. As one of the most prevalent forms of arthritis, it predominantly affects older adults, leading to pain, stiffness, and a limited range of motion.

Understanding the causes and exploring treatment options are essential steps toward effective management and improved quality of life.

If hip pain or stiffness from osteoarthritis is affecting your daily activities, you don’t have to manage it alone. With clinics near Kent and Essex, Joint Injection Clinic offers advanced treatments to reduce hip pain and improve your mobility.

Schedule your consultation now!
Hip Pain Treatment Near Kent and Essex

Common Causes of Hip Osteoarthritis

The development of hip osteoarthritis generally results from a combination of factors, including:

  • Age: The risk of developing osteoarthritis increases as individuals grow older, largely due to the cumulative wear and tear on the joints over time.
  • Genetic Factors: A family history of osteoarthritis may predispose individuals to the condition, indicating a hereditary component.
  • Previous Injuries: Injuries to the hip joint, such as fractures or dislocations, can hasten the degenerative process leading to osteoarthritis.
  • Obesity: Excess body weight exerts additional stress on weight-bearing joints, including the hips. This added pressure can accelerate cartilage breakdown.
  • Congenital Conditions: Abnormal joint structures, such as developmental dysplasia of the hip, may lead to premature wear and tear.
  • Repetitive Stress: Occupation or sports activities that put repetitive strain on the hip joint can increase the likelihood of developing osteoarthritis.

Symptoms of Hip Osteoarthritis

Hip osteoarthritis can manifest through various symptoms, which may progressively worsen over time. Common signs include:

  • Pain or aching in the hip: This may be felt in the groin, thigh, buttocks, or knee and often increases with activity.
  • Stiffness: Many individuals report stiffness, especially in the morning or after sitting for prolonged periods.
  • Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty in moving the hip joint can hinder activities such as walking or bending.
  • Grinding or Crunching Sensation: This may occur during movement due to loose fragments of cartilage within the joint.

How Is Hip Osteoarthritis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of hip osteoarthritis begins with a thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical history and a physical examination. Physicians often utilize imaging techniques such as X-rays or MRIs to assess the extent of cartilage wear and joint changes.

Treatment Options

While there is no cure for hip osteoarthritis, various treatment strategies aim to manage symptoms and enhance quality of life. Treatments can be grouped into conservative and surgical options:

Non-Surgical Treatment for Hip Osteoarthritis

  • Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting weight-loss strategies and engaging in low-impact exercises can relieve stress on the hip joint.
  • Physiotherapy: Guided exercises help improve flexibility and strength, which can alleviate pain and enhance function.
  • Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen, NSAIDs) and topical analgesics can help reduce pain and inflammation. If oral medications are not enough, a steroid injection can be given to hip joint. This can be with or without hyaluronic acid injection.
  • Assistive Devices: Using canes or walkers can provide necessary support and offload pressure from the affected joint.

Advanced Treatment Options for Hip Osteoarthritis

  • Hip Resurfacing: This procedure involves capping the femoral head with metal while preserving the bone structure, allowing for a less invasive solution.
  • Total Hip Replacement: In more severe cases, replacement of the damaged hip joint with an artificial implant is a common procedure that significantly reduces pain and restores mobility.
  • Osteotomy: This involves realigning the bones to distribute weight more evenly across the joint, although it is less commonly performed.

Conclusion

Hip osteoarthritis is a chronic condition that can significantly impact daily living. Understanding its causes and recognizing the symptoms early can lead to effective management strategies. Collaborative efforts with healthcare providers ensure that individuals can employ appropriate treatment options to maintain mobility, reduce pain, and improve their overall quality of life.

Get Help for Hip Osteoarthritis at Joint Injection Clinic

If hip osteoarthritis is causing pain, stiffness, or limiting your mobility, professional treatment can help you regain comfort and independence. At Joint Injection Clinic, our experienced team offers evidence-based treatments to reduce hip pain and support your daily activities.

We welcome patients at all three of our clinics:

Dartford Clinic – ideal for those in Kent and South East London

Address: Unit 30, 1st Floor, The Base Dartford Business Park, Victoria Road, Dartford, DA1 5FS.

Romford Clinic – easily accessible from Essex and Greater London

Address: Room no 8, Alliance Office Space 2-4 Eastern Road, Romford, Essex, RM1 3PJ.

Canterbury Clinic – serving East Kent and surrounding areas

Address: 12-17 Upper Bridge Street, Canterbury, CT1 2NF, United Kingdom.


From ultrasound-guided injections to tailored physiotherapy and rehabilitation plans, our specialists can help you manage hip pain effectively and return to your usual activities confidently.

Schedule your consultation now!