Symptoms and Treatment of Transient Osteoporosis of the Hip

Transient osteoporosis of the hip is a condition characterized by temporary loss of bone density and strength in the head of the thighbone (femur). Its causes are unknown, but it is a very different condition from age-related osteoporosis.

People with this condition present with spontaneous onset of hip pain associated with X-ray signs of osteoporosis and MRI evidence of bone inflammation. Transient osteoporosis of the hip usually resolves on its own within six months to a year.

This article discusses transient osteoporosis of the hip and how it is diagnosed and treated. It also goes over symptoms and how it differs from age-related osteoporosis.

Who Gets Transient Osteoporosis of the Hip?

Transient osteoporosis of the hip is most common in middle-aged men and women in their third trimester of pregnancy. It is not understood why these groups of patients are affected by transient osteoporosis of the hip.

The cause of the condition is unknown, but theories include obstruction of blood vessels in the area, abnormal mechanical stress on the bone, and hormone changes.

What Are the Symptoms of Transient Osteoporosis of the Hip?

The primary symptom of transient osteoporosis of the hip is the spontaneous onset of hip pain that is unrelated to injury. Pain may be experienced in the:

• Groin
• Buttock
• Thigh

Usually, the symptoms are worse with weight-bearing activities. You may develop a noticeable limp and have a limited range of motion. The pain can get so intense that it is disabling.

Pain tends to increase for several months, and then gradually lessens with time.

How Transient Osteoporosis of the Hip Is Diagnosed

When the clinical symptoms raise suspicion of transient osteoporosis of the hip, an X-ray will be obtained. The X-ray will show osteoporosis of the femoral head (the ball of the ball-and-socket hip joint), which means the bone is less dense than normal.

If this is seen, an MRI may also be obtained to look for the characteristic evidence of transient osteoporosis within this region. The MRI and X-ray can also be helpful in distinguishing between other conditions that may have similar symptoms such as:

• Arthritis of the hip
• Avascular necrosis of the hip
• Femoral neck stress fracture

Treatment

Because transient osteoporosis of the hip resolves within about six to 12 months on its own, treatment is aimed at decreasing pain and discomfort.

Because the bone is unusually weak in the affected area, there is a risk of hip fracture, which is the most feared complication of this condition. Your healthcare provider may recommend limiting weight-bearing activities and using crutches or a walker to decrease the stress on the bone.

Pain medications can be helpful to reduce the discomfort associated with this condition. Recent studies have also shown some benefits of bisphosphonate medications used to treat osteoporosis.

Physical therapy may be recommended to maintain your strength and flexibility. Water exercises can be good as they are non-weight-bearing. It's good to get vitamin D and calcium to support bone healing.

How It Differs From Age-Related Osteoporosis

Age-related osteoporosis is a progressive and usually painless condition that affects bones throughout the body. Age-related osteoporosis has long-term consequences and risks for fractures.

Summary

Transient osteoporosis of the hip is a condition that causes bone loss in the hip. It is most common in middle-aged men and women in the third trimester of pregnancy. People with this condition have an increased risk of hip fracture.

Transient osteoporosis of the hip usually resolves on its own within six to 12 months. In the meantime, you will need to reduce weight-bearing activity and take steps to limit your risk of falls.