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Osteoarthritis of the hip is a condition where the protective cartilage in your hip joint wears down over time. The hip is a ball-and-socket joint, and this cartilage acts as a smooth cushion. When it wears away, the bones can start to rub against each other, which causes pain, stiffness, and swelling.
read more about osteoarthritis of the hip ...The main cause of hip osteoarthritis is "wear and tear" that happens as you get older. This gradual breakdown of cartilage is a normal part of aging. Your risk is higher if you have had a past hip injury, are very overweight, or if it runs in your family.
The most common symptom is pain in the hip or groin area. Sometimes, the pain can even be felt in your thigh or knee. The pain is often worse in the morning or after you have been sitting for a long time. You may also feel stiffness that makes it hard to put on your shoes, or a grinding or catching feeling in your hip.
A doctor will talk to you about your symptoms and examine your hip to see how well it moves. The main way to confirm the diagnosis is with an X-ray. An X-ray can clearly show if the space in your hip joint has become narrow, which means the cartilage is gone. It can also show any bone spurs that have formed.
There is no cure, but treatment helps manage the symptoms. For mild cases, this includes gentle exercise, physical therapy to strengthen your muscles, and weight loss. Pain relievers, like ibuprofen, can also help. For severe pain that does not get better, a hip replacement surgery is a very common and effective option to relieve pain.
Will I need a hip replacement?
Not everyone with hip osteoarthritis needs surgery. Many people manage their pain well for many years with simple treatments. Surgery is usually an option only when the pain is severe and stops you from doing your daily activities.
Does exercise make it worse?
No. The right kind of exercise is one of the best treatments. Gentle, low-impact activities like swimming, walking, or cycling can strengthen the muscles that support your hip. This can help reduce the pain.
Can I prevent hip osteoarthritis?
You cannot always prevent it, especially if it runs in your family. However, you can lower your risk by keeping a healthy weight, staying active, and trying to avoid injuries to your hip.
You should see a doctor if you have pain or stiffness in your hip or groin that lasts for more than a few weeks. If the pain is stopping you from doing your normal activities, like walking or sleeping, it is important to get it checked. A doctor can find the cause of the pain and help you make a plan to manage it.