What are the common causes of hip pain in adults. How can you identify different types of hip pain. What are the most effective treatments for hip discomfort. When should you seek medical attention for hip issues. How can lifestyle changes help manage hip pain.

Common Causes of Hip Pain in Adults

Hip pain is a prevalent issue affecting many adults, often interfering with daily activities and quality of life. Understanding the root causes of hip discomfort is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Here are some of the most common culprits behind hip pain:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Bursitis
• Tendinitis
• Hip fractures
• Labral tears
• Herniated discs
• Sciatica

Is osteoarthritis the most common cause of hip pain in older adults? Indeed, osteoarthritis is the leading cause of hip pain in individuals over 50. This degenerative condition occurs when the cartilage cushioning the hip joint wears down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

Identifying Different Types of Hip Pain

Hip pain can manifest in various ways, and understanding the nature of the discomfort can provide valuable insights into its underlying cause. Here’s a breakdown of different types of hip pain:

Dull or Achy Pain

Dull or achy pain in the hip area is often associated with chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis or bursitis. This type of pain may worsen with activity and improve with rest. Can dull hip pain be a sign of a serious condition? While often indicative of chronic issues, persistent dull pain should not be ignored, as it could signal the progression of underlying conditions.

Groin Pain

Pain located in the groin area may indicate problems within the hip joint itself. This type of pain is commonly associated with conditions like hip impingement or labral tears. Does groin pain always mean a hip problem? Not necessarily. Groin pain can also be caused by hernias, muscle strains, or even referred pain from the lower back.

Outer Hip Pain

Pain on the outside of the hip, particularly over the bony prominence known as the greater trochanter, is often associated with trochanteric bursitis. This condition involves inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions the hip joint.

Sudden and Intense Pain

Sudden, intense hip pain may indicate a more serious condition such as a hip fracture or dislocation. These acute injuries often result from falls or high-impact accidents and require immediate medical attention.

Factors That Trigger or Worsen Hip Pain

Understanding what triggers or exacerbates hip pain can help in managing the condition and preventing further discomfort. Here are some common factors:

• Activity or overuse
• Applying pressure or trying to bear weight
• Injury
• Long periods of rest
• Movement
• Overuse

Why does hip pain often worsen with activity? Many hip conditions, such as osteoarthritis or bursitis, can become more painful with increased activity due to added stress on the joint. However, it’s important to note that moderate, appropriate exercise can actually help improve hip function and reduce pain in the long term.

Accompanying Symptoms of Hip Pain

Hip pain rarely occurs in isolation. Recognizing associated symptoms can provide valuable clues for diagnosis and treatment. Common accompanying symptoms include:

• Decreased range of motion
• Difficulty rolling the hip or thigh outward
• Locking or catching sensations
• Stiffness
• Swelling

How does decreased range of motion impact daily life? Reduced hip mobility can significantly affect various activities, from walking and climbing stairs to putting on socks or getting in and out of a car. This limitation can lead to a decrease in overall quality of life if left untreated.

Diagnostic Approaches for Hip Pain

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of hip pain. Healthcare providers employ various diagnostic tools and techniques to identify the underlying cause:

Physical Examination

A thorough physical exam is often the first step in diagnosing hip pain. The doctor will assess your gait, range of motion, and perform specific tests to evaluate hip function and identify potential sources of pain.

Imaging Studies

Imaging techniques play a vital role in visualizing the hip joint and surrounding structures. Common imaging studies include:

• X-rays: To visualize bone structure and detect arthritis or fractures
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): For detailed images of soft tissues, including cartilage and labrum
• CT (Computed Tomography) scans: To provide cross-sectional images of the hip joint
• Ultrasound: To evaluate soft tissue structures and guide injections

Are X-rays always sufficient for diagnosing hip problems? While X-rays are useful for detecting bone-related issues, they may not reveal soft tissue problems. In such cases, MRI or ultrasound may be necessary for a comprehensive diagnosis.

Blood Tests

In some cases, blood tests may be ordered to check for inflammatory markers or rule out systemic conditions that could be causing hip pain.

Treatment Options for Hip Pain

The treatment of hip pain depends on its underlying cause and severity. Here are some common approaches:

Conservative Management

• Rest and activity modification
• Physical therapy and exercises
• Ice or heat therapy
• Over-the-counter pain medications (NSAIDs)
• Weight management

How effective is physical therapy for hip pain? Physical therapy can be highly effective in improving hip function, reducing pain, and preventing future issues. A tailored exercise program can strengthen supporting muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance overall joint health.

Medications

In addition to over-the-counter options, prescription medications may be recommended, including:

• Stronger NSAIDs
• Corticosteroids
• Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis

Injections

Corticosteroid injections can provide temporary relief for conditions like bursitis or mild to moderate osteoarthritis. Hyaluronic acid injections may also be considered for osteoarthritis.

Surgical Interventions

When conservative measures fail to provide adequate relief, surgical options may be considered:

• Hip arthroscopy for labral repairs or removal of bone spurs
• Hip replacement surgery for severe osteoarthritis or other degenerative conditions
• Fracture repair for hip fractures

Is hip replacement surgery always the last resort? While hip replacement is a major surgery typically reserved for severe cases, advancements in surgical techniques have made it a viable option for many patients with debilitating hip pain who haven’t responded to other treatments.

Lifestyle Modifications and Prevention Strategies

Adopting certain lifestyle changes can help manage hip pain and prevent future issues:

Exercise and Physical Activity

Regular, low-impact exercises can help maintain hip strength and flexibility. Suitable activities include:

• Swimming
• Cycling
• Walking
• Yoga
• Tai Chi

How much exercise is recommended for hip health? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week, along with muscle-strengthening activities at least twice a week.

Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce stress on the hip joints. Even a modest weight loss can lead to noticeable improvements in hip pain and function.

Ergonomic Considerations

Proper ergonomics at work and home can help prevent hip strain. This includes:

• Using chairs with good lumbar support
• Avoiding prolonged sitting
• Ensuring proper posture during daily activities

Proper Footwear

Wearing supportive, well-fitting shoes can help maintain proper alignment and reduce stress on the hips.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Hip Pain

While some hip pain may resolve on its own, certain symptoms warrant prompt medical evaluation:

• Sudden, intense pain following an injury
• Inability to bear weight on the affected leg
• Signs of infection (fever, redness, warmth around the hip)
• Pain that persists or worsens despite home remedies
• Significant limitation in daily activities due to hip pain

Should you wait to see if hip pain resolves on its own? While minor aches may improve with rest and home care, persistent or severe hip pain should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to prevent potential complications and ensure proper treatment.

Future Directions in Hip Pain Management

Research in hip pain management continues to evolve, offering promising new approaches:

Regenerative Medicine

Stem cell therapy and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are being studied for their potential to promote healing and reduce inflammation in hip conditions.

Minimally Invasive Techniques

Advancements in surgical techniques are leading to less invasive procedures with shorter recovery times and better outcomes.

Personalized Treatment Approaches

Genetic and biomarker research may lead to more tailored treatment plans based on individual patient characteristics.

How might personalized medicine change hip pain treatment? By identifying specific genetic markers or biomarkers associated with different hip conditions, treatments could be customized to each patient’s unique profile, potentially improving efficacy and reducing side effects.

Understanding hip pain, its causes, and treatment options is crucial for maintaining mobility and quality of life. By recognizing symptoms early, seeking appropriate medical care, and adopting healthy lifestyle habits, many individuals can effectively manage hip pain and prevent future complications. As research continues to advance, we can look forward to even more effective and personalized approaches to hip pain management in the future.

Hip pain in adults – Mayo Clinic

About this Symptom Checker

Hip pain in adults

Find possible causes of hip pain based on specific factors. Check one or more factors on this page that apply to your symptom.

Pain is

• 
  Dull or achy




• 
  Located in the groin

• 
  Located on the outside of the hip (greater trochanter)




• 
  Sudden and intense

Triggered or worsened by

• 
  Activity or overuse




• 
  Applying pressure or trying to bear weight




• 
  Injury

• 
  Long periods of rest




• 
  Movement




• 
  Overuse

Accompanied by

• 
  Decreased range of motion




• 
  Decreased range of motion such as difficulty rolling the hip or thigh outward




• 
  Locking or catching

• 
  Stiffness




• 
  Swelling

1. Walls RM, et al. , eds. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Elsevier; 2018. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Oct. 30, 2017.
2. Palmer J, et al. Abdominal pain mimics. Emergency Medicine Clinics of North America. 2016;34:409.
3. UpToDate. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Oct. 30, 2017.
4. Zeiter D. Abdominal pain in children. Pediatric Clinics of North America. 2017;64:525.
5. Palmer J, et al. Abdominal pain mimics. Emergency Medicine Clinics of North America. 2016;34:409.
6. Feldman M, et al. Sleisenger and Fordtran’s Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, Management. 10th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2016. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Oct. 30, 2017.
7. Merck Manual Professional Version. https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional. Accessed Oct. 30, 2017.
8. AskMayoExpert. Rochester, Minn.: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; 2017.
9. Kliegman RM, et al. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 20th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Elsevier; 2016. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Nov. 2, 2017.
10. Zitelli BJ, et al., eds. Zitelli and Davis’ Atlas of Pediatric Physical Diagnosis. Philadelphia, Pa.: Elsevier; 2017. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Nov. 11, 2017.
11. Ferri FF. Ferri’s Clinical Advisor 2018. Philadelphia, Pa.: Elsevier; 2018. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Nov. 11, 2017.
12. Muncie HL, et al. Dizziness: Approach to evaluation and management. American Family Physician. 2017;95:154.
13. American College of Emergency Physicians. https://www.acep.org. Accessed Nov. 11, 2017.
14. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. http://www.fda.gov. Accessed Nov. 11, 2017.
15. Schmitt BD. Fever. In: Pediatric Telephone Protocols: Office Version 15th ed. Elk Grove Village, Ill.: American Academy of Pediatrics; 2015.
16. Mannenbach MS (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. June 14, 2017.
17. Goyal DG (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. June 14, 2017.
18. Hoecker JL (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Aug. 28, 2017.
19. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org. Accessed Nov. 20, 2017.
20. Petty RE, et al., eds. Textbook of Pediatric Rheumatology. 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Elsevier; 2016. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Nov. 20, 2017.
21. Elsevier Point of Care. https://www.clinicalkey.com.  Accessed Nov. 20, 2017.
22. Kasper DL, et al., eds. Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine. 19th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill Education; 2015. http://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. Accessed Nov. 20, 2017.
23. Wein AJ, et al., eds. Campbell-Walsh Urology. 11th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Elsevier; 2016. https://www.clinicalkey.com.. Accessed Dec. 2, 2017.
24. National Eye Institute. https://nei.nih.gov. Accessed Dec. 5, 2017.
25. Wilkinson JM (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Nov. 8, 2017.

Advertisement

Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission.

Advertising & Sponsorship

• Policy
• Opportunities
• Ad Choices

Mayo Clinic Press

Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic Press.

• Mayo Clinic on Incontinence – Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic on Incontinence
• NEW – Future Care – Mayo Clinic PressNEW – Future Care
• Mayo Clinic on Hearing and Balance – Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic on Hearing and Balance
• FREE Mayo Clinic Diet Assessment – Mayo Clinic PressFREE Mayo Clinic Diet Assessment
• Mayo Clinic Health Letter – FREE book – Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic Health Letter – FREE book

.

ITT-20009075

Hip Pain Symptoms & Treatment

The hip – one of the body’s largest joints – forms a hinge between the pelvis and thigh bone. You use your hips to walk, run, bend, sit and stand. With all of this use, hip pain may be the result of simple wear and tear – but it can also be caused by an injury.

It’s important to see a doctor about sudden or ongoing hip pain to find its source and relieve the discomfort. At Aurora Health Care, we offer a variety of treatment options for hip pain, including physical therapy, integrative treatments like acupuncture, hip resurfacing and total hip replacement.

What is referred pain in the hip?

Some people feel pain in the hip that originates elsewhere in the body This is known as referred pain. Although you’ll feel it in your hip, the actual source of the pain might be:

• Trochanteric bursitis: Irritation in the bursae – the fluid-filled sacs that protect the hip joint – can cause pain in the hip joint. This condition is known as trochanteric bursitis of the hip.
• Spine or back problems: A pinched nerve, ruptured disc or spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal column) in the back can cause hip pain. Similarly, pain from a pinched nerve, like pain caused by sciatica, can radiate to the hip. These issues may require back and spine care.
• Hernia: When a weakness in the abdominal wall lets part of the small intestine or other tissues bulge out, the pain sometimes reaches the hip.

Experts in identifying hip pain causes

At Aurora, our orthopedic team takes the time to listen to you and effectively diagnose hip pain. People also choose us because of our:

• Focus on prevention and therapy: Our primary care sports medicine specialists focus on your overall health, helping you prevent injury whenever possible. When problems do arise, our team can help you find the best path to healing – often through noninvasive treatments like physical therapy or integrative care. Learn about orthopedics and primary care.
• Coordinated care: No matter where you receive care, your entire team will be able to easily access your health records and communicate with each other. That means your primary care doctor, physical therapist and surgeon will work closely together to achieve the best possible outcomes for you.
• Broad range of specialists: At Aurora, you’ll have access to more than 70 orthopedic surgeons, many of whom have advanced fellowship training. This kind of specialized training means you can work with a doctor who has extensive experience in your unique condition.
• Advanced surgery with faster recovery: We were among the first in Wisconsin to provide anterior hip replacement surgery. With this minimally invasive procedure, our surgeons can repair or remove problem areas in the joint using smaller incisions – so you can recover faster. Read more about minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery.

Who is at risk for hip pain?

Many people experience increasing hip pain as they age, with women more likely to experience hip pain than men.

Some people have a higher risk of hip pain because of:

• Weak muscles due to an inactive lifestyle or injury
• Excess weight or obesity, which increases pressure on the hips
• Previous hip injuries
• Conditions like hip instability
• Exercise or participation in sports without warming up

Is your hip and knee pain cause for concern?

Hip and knee pain doesn’t have to interfere with your life. Our hip and knee pain quiz evaluates your knees and hips, gauges the severity of any issues and gives you an idea what to do next based on your results.

Take the hip and knee pain quiz

What causes hip pain?

The hip is one of the largest joints in the body. As the meeting point of the thigh and pelvis, the hip bears a lot of weight, which can make it vulnerable to injury.

Common hip pain causes include:

• Injury: A fall or car accident can cause a fracture (crack or break) in the hipbone. In addition to fractures, an injury can cause bruising and swelling that affects the muscles, ligaments and tendons surrounding the hip.
• Repetitive use: Impacts from playing football or the twisting motions of golf or softball can cause painful problems in and around the hip, including labral tears. A labral tear is a rip in the labrum, the cushion that helps hold the hip joint in place. Find out more about hip dislocation and instability.
• Arthritis: Inflammation and stiffness of the joints can cause hip pain. In osteoarthritis, cartilage (the cushion between bones) wears away, allowing the bones to rub together painfully. Learn more about arthritis.
• Childhood hip disease: Some people are born with hip joints that are shaped differently from most people. This different shape can cause hip pain and other issues during childhood. Wear and tear from childhood hip disease can also develop into arthritis and hip pain in later life.
• Bone disease: Sometimes, hip pain occurs because of infection, disease or cancer in bones in and around the hip. Our experts in musculoskeletal oncology are experienced at diagnosing and treating bone and soft tissue cancer.

When should you see a doctor for hip pain?

Hip pain may be a sharp pain or an ache. You might notice pain in the hip joint or in the muscles where the thighbones meet the pelvis.

See a doctor if you have:

• Sudden, intense pain
• A joint bulge or another deformity
• A hip or leg that won’t support your weight
• An inability to move the leg or hip
• Pain with chills, fever, a rash or other signs of possible infection

Depending on what is causing the hip pain, other symptoms may include:

• Tenderness or pain in the hip joint
• Pain in the groin, outer hip, thigh or buttocks
• Trouble moving the hip or legs
• Difficulty sleeping on the hip
• Snapping or clicking sounds in the hip (crepitus)

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, we can help. Start by taking this free hip joint pain assessment to see how much your joint pain affects your life. Then we’ll help you find an orthopedic specialist near you. You can use the results of your assessment to help guide your conversation with them, and they’ll help you create a plan for pain relief.

What to expect at your appointment for hip pain

At your appointment, your doctor will ask about your hip pain, including when it started and what you think caused it. During your physical exam, you’ll also work together to check your hip’s strength and movement.

Before making a diagnosis, your doctor may order tests like:

• X-rays: Images that can show fractures, injuries or arthritis in the hip and other bones
• Ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans: Detailed images that let your doctor see inside your muscles, ligaments and other soft tissues
• Blood tests: Tests that check for infection or different types of arthritis

Treatments for hip pain

Depending on the hip pain causes and severity, your doctor may suggest several possible treatments. These treatment options will be based on your lifestyle and overall health goals, and may include:

• Physical therapy to improve mobility or heal from injury
• Integrated medicine, like massage, chiropractic and acupuncture
• Training, like performance running, to improve athletic form and prevent further injury
• Injections for joint pain (sometimes called cortisone shots) to lubricate the hip joint and ease movement
• Medical care for any autoimmune disease or infections that are causing the pain
• Hip joint resurfacing to remove damaged areas of the joint
• Hip replacement surgery to treat severe arthritis or severe injuries

Arthrosis of the hip joint (coxarthrosis) symptoms and treatment

One of the most common diseases of the musculoskeletal system is arthrosis of the hip joints. Experts note that this ailment is usually the cause of pain in the thigh. Statistics say: every tenth patient over 40 is diagnosed with arthrosis, diagnosed in a third of patients over 60, and in 80% of more mature patients (from 80 and older).

What is coxarthrosis, deforming arthrosis of the hip joint?

Osteoarthritis of the hip joint is a progressive deterioration and destruction of the cartilage tissue of the hip joint. As a result, a person experiences severe pain and limited mobility in the joint. This disease is also known as coxarthrosis or osteoarthritis of the hip joint.

Osteoarthritis of the hip joint: symptoms and signs of the disease

The first sign of problems with the hip joint is pain. Moreover, its localization may vary: pain may occur in the joint area, give to the groin, thigh or buttock, and even reach the knees. Often, discomfort is felt in the lumbar region. Therefore, discomfort is mistakenly attributed to diseases of the spine. The intensity of pain in arthrosis of the hip joint varies depending on the stage of the disease.

Another sign of coxarthrosis is limited mobility in the joint. With arthrosis, movements that were usually performed easily and smoothly are made with difficulty. Also, the joint is deformed and, as a result, the limb is shortened, lameness occurs.

Causes of coxarthrosis

Hip arthrosis can be provoked by:

• Age-related changes
• Congenital hip dysplasia – developmental anomalies
• Permanent inflammatory diseases of the joint (various types of arthritis)
• Hip injuries
• Loads on the joint (training with uncontrolled load, heavy physical labor)
• Overweight
• Metabolic disorders in diabetes mellitus, etc.

Diagnostics

Plain x-ray of the hip joint is sufficient to make the diagnosis. From the picture, you can see the narrowing of the joint space, that is, to assess how depleted the cartilage tissue is. The specialist also conducts a clinical examination, where, with the help of functional tests, he draws conclusions about the range of motion. Sometimes, in rare cases, an MRI, CT scan, or ultrasound of the hip joint may be needed.

Treatment of arthrosis of the hip joint

After consultation, examination and study of the results of examinations, the orthopedic traumatologist determines how to treat arthrosis of the hip joint. There are several treatment options that are prescribed depending on the stage of the disease.

Conservative treatment

Drug therapy is used in the initial stages of hip arthrosis. It includes:

• Anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs to relieve the symptoms of arthrosis
• Vasodilator drugs and chondroprotectors – necessary to improve blood circulation in the joint and slow down dystrophic processes in cartilage tissue
• Growth factor injections (PRP-therapy) – promote recovery and accelerate healing processes.

Non-surgical methods of treatment

Physiotherapy and kinesitherapy are also actively used in the fight against arthrosis. In combination with drug treatment, they make it possible to stop the destruction of the hip joint and preserve the quality of life of patients.

• Physiotherapy includes various procedures (shock wave therapy, phonophoresis, myostimulation)
• Kinesitherapy includes physiotherapy exercises, exercises on simulators, traction in the pool, massage from food, and at the same time help maintain normal weight.

Operative surgical treatment

If conservative therapy fails, further destruction of the hip joint can be seen on the x-ray – drastic measures are needed. Such as surgery to replace a broken joint. This is a surgical intervention to remove the damaged hip joint and implant an artificial endoprosthesis in its place. It ideally repeats the shape of the joint and, after recovery, completely assumes the range of motion. Thus, at an advanced stage of arthrosis, arthroplasty is the only way to restore movement in the joint.

Degrees of arthrosis of the hip joints and features of treatment at different stages of the disease

How to treat arthrosis of the hip joint? If a patient is diagnosed with arthrosis of the hip joint, treatment is selected depending on the stage of the disease. In total, there are 4 stages of the disease – from the first changes in the cartilage tissue to the complete destruction of the hip joint

Arthrosis of the hip joint of the 1st degree: treatment

At this stage, the disease has only begun to affect the cartilage tissue. Symptoms of arthrosis are either mild or completely absent. There may be discomfort in the hip and slight stiffness in the joint. With arthrosis of the first degree, conservative treatment is indicated – well-chosen drug therapy can significantly slow down degenerative processes in the hip joint.

Stage 2 arthrosis of the hip joint: treatment

Coxarthrosis progresses: symptoms cause more and more discomfort to the patient. Pain in the joint worries him more and more often, there is a crunch in the joint, restriction of movements. To improve the patient’s condition, conservative therapy and physiotherapy are prescribed.

Grade 3 hip joint arthrosis: treatment

With grade 3 coxarthrosis, a significantly narrowed joint space is seen on the x-ray. Pain is intense, the joint is deformed – defarthrosis of the hip joint develops. At this stage, as a rule, non-surgical methods of treatment are ineffective. You need a hip replacement (endoprosthetics).

4 degree coxarthrosis

The joint is completely destroyed, the muscles are atrophied, pain in the joint bothers the patient almost constantly. The only way to solve the problem with the joint is to have a hip arthroplasty.

Arthrosis of the hip joint: causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

Moscow, st. Partizanskaya, 41

Kuntsevsky
medical and rehabilitation center.

The hip joint (HJ) is the largest joint in the human body. Every day it is subjected to high loads, ensuring an even distribution of body weight between the lower limbs, helping to maintain balance when walking. With arthrosis, the hip joint and bone tissue are destroyed.

Pathology is chronic, most often develops in older people, after 40 years. Degenerative changes are irreversible, but the process can be stopped, significantly improving the patient’s quality of life. It is important to seek help from a doctor when the first symptoms of the disease appear.

Causes of arthrosis of the hip joint

Pathology can be primary and secondary.

Causes of arthrosis of the hip joint (coxarthrosis) of the primary type cannot be established. The disease is idiopathic. Pathology usually develops in old age and affects both hip joints at the same time. The prognosis is unfavorable, the course is severe.

Secondary coxarthrosis occurs as a complication of other diseases, therefore it is diagnosed in patients of different ages. Degenerative processes proceed slowly, usually only in one joint. With timely treatment, the prognosis is favorable.

The main causes of deforming arthrosis of the hip joint:

• Injuries of the limb.
• Heavy physical activity.
• Professional sports.
• Scoliosis and kyphosis.
• Flat feet.
• Inflammation of the joints (arthritis).
• Some infectious diseases.
• Diseases of the endocrine system: diabetes, gout.
• Chondromatosis of the joints.
• Perthes disease (necrosis of the femoral head).
• Overweight.
• Congenital malformations of the skeleton.
• Genetic predisposition.

Symptoms of pathology

The most characteristic sign of arthrosis of the hip joint is pain. The severity of the symptom depends on the stage of development of the pathology. At the initial stage, a person feels only discomfort, stiffness in movements. As the joint breaks down, chronic pain develops over time. The quality of life is declining.

Depending on the severity of the symptoms, 3 degrees of the disease are distinguished:

• First (initial) degree. The disease is practically not manifested. The symptoms of first-degree hip osteoarthritis are rarely noticed, especially in younger patients. Discomfort is attributed to fatigue, they try to treat periodic pains on their own with pharmacy ointments. The range of motion in the joint is preserved. The pain may also go away without treatment after a short rest. On x-ray, an experienced doctor will find a slight narrowing of the joint space. The initial stage of the disease responds well to conservative treatment.
• Second degree. Pain intensifies, occurs after physical exertion, during weather changes. At the end of the working day, the discomfort becomes pronounced and limits movement in the joint. When walking for a long time, the patient develops a characteristic “duck” gait with swaying from side to side. The second degree of arthrosis of the hip joint makes it difficult to perform simple actions: putting on socks, shoes, moving the leg to the side. After sitting for a long time, it is difficult for the patient to get up and take the first few steps. Then, already during the movement, the discomfort disappears. In the absence of treatment, osteoarthritis develops: shortening of the leg on the side of the pathology is possible, partial muscle atrophy. The radiograph clearly shows the narrowing of the joint space, the formation of osteophytes, the death of tissues of the femoral head and ilium. Cartilage degeneration can be seen on an MRI. Fragments of the destroyed joint are visualized in the joint cavity. The patient needs a conservative and minimally invasive treatment that will slow down the degenerative processes.
• Third degree. Deforming arthrosis practically immobilizes the limb, the person becomes disabled. The pain is constant and does not depend on physical activity. The patient sleeps poorly, becomes irritable, often depressed. In most cases, shortening of the leg is observed, but in every 10th patient, the limb lengthens. Ankylosis of the joint develops, lameness is formed. X-rays show the complete absence of cartilage, the destruction of the femoral head, the formation of large osteophytes. Patients with arthrosis of the 3rd degree are indicated for surgical intervention.

Diagnosis

A traumatologist-orthopedist, a rheumatologist can make a correct diagnosis. At the first appointment, the patient is examined, the degree of joint mobility, the severity of the pain syndrome are determined, and they are asked about the time and nature of the initial manifestations of the disease.

After that, a set of examinations is prescribed:

• X-ray of the hip joint. The gold standard in the diagnosis of hip pathologies. The picture clearly shows the state of the joint space, the presence of osteophytes.
• Ultrasound of the joint. The procedure is prescribed to assess the volume and nature of the synovial fluid.
• General blood test. The data shows the health status of the patient.
• Biochemical blood test. Patients with suspected arthrosis of the hip joint are tested for markers of rheumatological diseases.
• Urinalysis general. Important indicators are the level of protein, bilirubin, glucose, as well as the density and transparency of the material.
• CT or MRI. The pictures show in detail the condition of bone tissues, joints, and adjacent structures.
• Bone scintigraphy. The patient is injected with an osteotropic pharmaceutical preparation that acts as a contrast agent. The study determines the intensity of metabolic processes (osteoporosis) in the diseased area, assesses the state of blood flow.

Treatment of the disease

Drug therapy

Medicines help relieve pain, reduce inflammation, swelling of the joint. The doctor may prescribe:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Medicines are used to relieve symptoms.
• Glucocorticoids. Medicines are prescribed in the absence of the effect of taking NSAIDs. Glucocorticoids have an analgesic, anti-inflammatory effect.
• Chondroprotectors. The drugs restore cartilage tissue, contribute to the production of synovial fluid. The course intake of chondroprotectors significantly slows down the development of the disease and partially restores the function of the joint.
• Hyaluronic acid (“liquid prosthesis”). Medicines are injected directly into the joint cavity. Hyaluronic acid performs the function of synovial fluid, reduces friction between the surfaces of bones, facilitates the movement of the limb.
• Muscle relaxants. The action of drugs is based on the removal of spasm from the muscles. Pain is reduced, blood flow is normalized.

Therapeutic exercise

It is recommended to perform exercises for arthrosis of the hip joint regularly – gymnastics will help maintain leg mobility for as long as possible.

Physical therapy courses with a specialist have the maximum efficiency. The doctor selects a set of exercises individually. Under the supervision of a specialist, patients learn to perform movements correctly and distribute the load. In the future, gymnastics for arthrosis of the hip joint will be easier to do at home.

Physiotherapy

There are many procedures that, as part of complex treatment, help to significantly improve the patient’s condition:

• Electrophoresis. With the help of small currents, a high concentration of the drug is created directly in the pathology zone.
• Phonophoresis. The method is also aimed at the active penetration of the medicinal substance to the joint, but with the help of sound waves.
• Shock wave therapy. The diseased joint is affected by acoustic impulses. The effect of deep massage is achieved with the removal of salt deposits.

Surgical treatment

Surgery is indicated when the disease progresses. Arthrosis of the hip joint of the 3rd degree in most cases is treated only by surgery, drugs do not help restore mobility in the destroyed joint.

In modern medicine, the method of arthroplasty is actively used. During the operation, the surgeon completely or partially replaces the destroyed joint with an artificial implant. The mobility of the musculoskeletal joint is restored. After a course of rehabilitation, the patient’s quality of life improves, the ability to move independently returns, pain disappears.

General recommendations

The key to successful treatment is the careful observance of the general rules and recommendations. The patient should avoid strenuous exercise. The affected joint should be as quiet as possible. During sleep, it is better to turn to the healthy side so as not to inhibit blood flow at the site of arthrosis.

Diagnosis and treatment of arthrosis of the hip joint in Moscow

Kuntsevsky Medical and Rehabilitation Center invites you to undergo an examination in comfortable conditions. We will make a diagnosis, offer an individual treatment plan, and sign you up for exercise therapy for arthrosis of the hip joint. On the basis of the clinic, you can receive a set of necessary procedures, including undergoing rehabilitation after arthroplasty under the supervision of experienced doctors. Call us to book a consultation.

References:

1. Smirnov AN Articular syndromes: differential diagnosis and principles of pathogenetic therapy. M., 1999
2. Plushev, A.L. Dysplastic coxarthrosis. Theory and practice / A.L. Plushev. – M.: Letoprint, 2007
3. Volokitina, E. A. Complex diagnostics of coxarthrosis / E. A. Volokitina, I. M. Danilova, M. V. Chepeleva // Topical issues of traumatology and orthopedics: materials of scientific and practical. conf. – Minsk, 2000. – T. 1
4. Volokitina, E. A. Coxarthrosis and its surgical treatment : author. dis. Dr. med. Sciences / E. A. Volokitina. – Kurgan, 2003

Article author:

Make an appointment

Your request has been accepted!

Our managers will contact you shortly to clarify all the details of the appointment.