Osteoarthritis is a common condition that many people develop during middle age or older. Osteoarthritis of the hip causes pain and stiffness. It can make it hard to do everyday activities like bending over to tie a shoe, rising from a chair, or taking a short walk.

The hip is one of the body’s largest joints. It is a “ball-and-socket” joint. The bone surfaces of the ball and socket are covered with articular cartilage, a smooth, slippery substance that protects and cushions the bones and enables them to move easily.

In osteoarthritis, the cartilage in the hip joint gradually wears away over time. As the cartilage wears away, it becomes frayed and rough, and the protective joint space between the bones decreases. This can result in bone rubbing on bone. To make up for the lost cartilage, the damaged bones may start to grow outward and form bone spurs (osteophytes).

Osteoarthritis develops slowly and the pain it causes worsens over time.

Symptom:

• Pain in your groin or thigh that radiates to your buttocks or your knee

• Pain that flares up with vigorous activity

• Stiffness in the hip joint that makes it difficult to walk or bend

• “Locking” or “sticking” of the joint, and a grinding noise (crepitus) during movement caused by loose fragments of cartilage and other tissue interfering with the smooth motion of the hip

• Decreased range of motion in the hip that affects the ability to walk and may cause a limp

Treatment :

Early treatment of osteoarthritis of the hip includes lifestyle modifications. Minimizing activities and changing to lower impact exercises such as cycling or swimming will put less stress on your hip. Physiotherapy exercises can help to increase range of motion and flexibility as well as strengthen the muscles in your hip.

Surgery may be needed if your pain from arthritis worsens or if it is not relieved with nonsurgical treatment.

It is recommended to seek Dr Siow’s professional advice if you are experiencing osteoarthritis of the hip.