Arthritis is a common condition which affects the joints. It is characterized by swelling and pain in a particular joint. It usually affects the knees and hips. While there are various types of arthritis, the most common is osteoarthritis. Since this condition is a degenerative joint disease, it is more likely to occur and develop as one gets older.

Hip arthritis occurs when an injury and inflammation occur in the hip area, particularly its joints. The main reason for this is the breakdown of the cartilage tissue found in the joint.

It is difficult to pinpoint the root cause of hip arthritis. However, there are common factors that contribute to the development of the condition. These are overweight, old age and joint injury. There are also some other factors that are closely associated with osteoarthritis in the hip, such as the following:

  • Putting too much stress on the joints in the hip.
  • Certain genetic defects that affect the cartilage.
  • Joints not forming properly.

Symptoms of Hip Arthritis

If the osteoarthritis is present in the hip, the patient may have difficulty walking. The problem with this condition is that it can be difficult to diagnose at first. Also, the pain does not stay in the hip area or the affected joint. It radiates in the knee, buttocks, thigh and groin. What makes it even worse is that the pain is sharp and stabbing, making it more uncomfortable and difficult to move the affected areas.

Some of the most common symptoms of hip arthritis are the following:

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  • Joint stiffness which often occurs when sitting for long periods or after getting out of bed.
  • Swelling, tenderness and sharp, stabbing pain in the hip joint.
  • Difficulty moving the hip, especially when performing certain activities.
  • A crunching sound in the hip joint when you move it. It sounds like bones rubbing each other.

If you feel any of the aforementioned symptoms, it’s best to talk to the professional as early as possible. This is important for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment of Hip Arthritis Pain

There are two main goals for treating hip arthritis: controlling the pain and improving the function of the hip and the neighboring areas which are also affected. Ultimately, the goal is to improve the patient’s mobility and lifestyle. The following are the most common treatment options for hip arthritis pain:

  • Exercise and lifestyle changes.
  • Resting and taking care of the joint.
  • Losing excess weight.
  • Taking medications such as NSAIDs and other prescription pain meds.
  • Alternative and complementary therapies.

In worst cases, surgery may be needed. Two of the most common surgeries for osteoarthritis are total hip replacement and hip resurfacing. In total hip replacement, the damaged ball is replaced with a metal one and the hip sock is resurfaced with a plastic liner and metal shell. If you are not ready for total replacement, you can opt for hip resurfacing. This provides relief while you are still not ready to undergo total replacement. In this procedure, the affected hip joint surfaces are surgically removed and replaced with a metal substitute.

Hip Arthritis Pain Specialists

However, the best treatment is a combination of the various treatment options. Medication, therapy and lifestyle approaches must go together. But you can’t do this all alone. You need the help of professionals who are experts in treating hip arthritis. If you need medical help, check out AZ Pain and Spine Institute. We have a team of pain specialists to help you throughout your road to recovery.

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