What is Hip Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the hip is a degenerative joint disease that leads to the breakdown of cartilage in the hip joint, resulting in pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It is a common cause of hip pain, particularly in older adults.

Symptoms of Hip Osteoarthritis:

Symptoms often develop gradually and worsen over time. They include:

✅ Pain:

Felt in the groin, thigh, or buttocks

Worsens with activity and weight-bearing

Improves with rest but may become persistent

✅ Stiffness:

Morning stiffness (lasting <30 minutes)

Difficulty with bending, squatting, or putting on socks/shoes

✅ Reduced Range of Motion:

Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or standing up from sitting

✅ Creaking or Grating Sensation (Crepitus):

Grinding or clicking sound during movement

✅ Limping:

Due to pain and muscle weakness

✅ Leg Length Discrepancy:

Advanced OA may cause one leg to feel shorter than the other

Treatment for Hip Osteoarthritis:

There is no cure for OA, but treatments focus on pain relief, maintaining mobility, and improving quality of life.

1. Lifestyle Modifications & Non-Drug Treatments

�� Weight Loss: Reduces stress on the hip joint.

�� Physical Therapy & Exercise: Strengthens hip muscles and improves flexibility.

�� Assistive Devices: Cane or walker for mobility.

�� Footwear Adjustments: Shock-absorbing soles or orthotics.

2. Medications

�� Pain Relievers:

Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) – First-line for mild pain.

NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac) – Reduce inflammation & pain.

Topical NSAIDs (e.g., Voltarol gel) –  Could be effective with fewer side effects.

�� Injections:

Corticosteroid injections – Short-term relief for severe pain (not commonly performed).

3. Surgical Treatment (For Severe OA)

�� Hip Replacement Surgery (Total Hip Arthroplasty):

Recommended when pain is severe & daily activities are affected.

Highly successful in restoring mobility and reducing pain.

�� Hip Resurfacing:

An alternative in younger, active patients to preserve more bone.

References & Further Reading

NICE Guidelines on Osteoarthritis Management – NICE UK

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) Guidelines – AAOS

Arthritis Foundation: Hip Osteoarthritis – Arthritis.org

BMJ Best Practice: Hip Osteoarthritis – BMJ

Dr Geranmayeh