What are common symptoms of hip arthritis?
Patients who have severe hip arthritis typically have some or all of the following symptoms:
- Difficulty walking
- Stiffness of the hip joint
- Pain in the groin and thigh
What causes wearing out of the hip joint?
The most common cause of hip arthritis is known as osteoarthritis, or wear-and-tear arthritis. A narrow hip joint without cartilage and bone spurs are common findings on an x-ray. Other possible causes of joint problems include rheumatoid arthritis, and osteonecrosis (also called avascular necrosis). However, the most common reason for needing hip replacement surgery is osteoarthritis.
When is a hip replacement necessary?
The first step in treating hip arthritis is with conservative treatments. Options include:
- Anti-Inflammatory Medication
The medications are effective at treating the inflammation of hip arthritis and also help with pain relief. There are many medications available, and some may be better for you than others. Knowing which one is best is difficult to determine, and is often best discovered by trying different medications. - Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help maintain motion and strength of the soft-tissues and muscles around the joint. Even if total hip replacement surgery is definitely necessary, physical therapy can help keep your joint in the best shape possible prior to total hip replacement surgery. - Cane or Walker
Use of a cane or walker is helpful at taking some of the burden off your joint. These devices often help you walk more comfortably and without a limp.
If these treatments are not adequate in treating your symptoms, then hip replacement surgery may be recommended. Before surgery is considered, a thorough medical evaluation should be completed to ensure you are in good health and your body is prepared as best possible for the procedure.
Patients interested in alternatives to hip replacement may consider other nonoperative and surgical procedures. The vast majority of patients can decide when they think the time is right for hip replacement--you should not feel pressure from your doctor to have this surgery done.
