Hip Osteoarthritis: Features And Symptoms

Hip osteoarthritis is the wear and tear of the hyaline cartilage present at each end of a joint. This cartilage covers the bone to protect it from friction against the other bone parts and also reduces the impact of any loads.

An imbalance due to trauma, genetic defect and even abuse of the joint reduces the ability to retain water in the cartilage. This results in progressive wear and tear on the joint until the bones become deformed. It then leads to pain and loss of mobility.

Hip osteoarthritis: causes and risk factors

We still ignore the cause of hip osteoarthritis worldwide, although there are several conditions that lead to its occurrence. For example, there is a genetic factor that allows one to develop osteoarthritis.

Limb deformities are also a predisposing factor, especially in the lower limbs that bear the body weight. Being overweight puts even greater strain on the hips and knees, increasing the risk of degeneration.

Exercising intense sports and certain heavy work can also promote the development of osteoarthritis, especially in the lower extremities. Certain falls and knocks can also lead to early onset, as a fracture can affect the shape of the joint.

In general, this condition manifests itself in adults older than 50-60 years. However, it sometimes occurs in young people as well. However, these are exceptional cases.

Symptoms of hip osteoarthritis

Pain is the main symptom and it often manifests itself:

• In the groin
• In the thighs
• On the inside of the thighs
• In the knees

It can also affect both hips. Usually, however, only one is painful. The pain is usually tied to activity and can be relieved by rest. It’s a type of “mechanical pain,” although it’s quite different from inflammatory joint pain. This is because inflammatory joint pain persists even while taking physical rest.

Another symptom of hip osteoarthritis is the loss of range of motion, making it increasingly difficult to perform normal daily activities.

Both pain and disability are progressive, although their development varies from person to person. Lameness is another symptom of hip osteoarthritis and manifests as a characteristic rocking motion of the body when it affects both joints.

Hip osteoarthritis progresses progressively over the years, depending on activity level. Many people can lead normal lives if they follow the right treatment.

Diagnosis of hip osteoarthritis

Doctors make a diagnosis by asking patients about their symptoms and limitations. They also examine the hip joint and its range of motion. This is how a specialist can assess the degree of osteoarthritis a patient has at the time.

In addition, they order an X-ray of the hip to confirm the diagnosis. This allows them to observe the typical changes caused by hip osteoarthritis. This allows them to view the signs of wear in the hip joint and determine the degree of severity.

There is no direct relationship between the intensity of degeneration and the symptoms. So a badly worn hip can be painless, even if it may be stiffer, and vice versa.

Treatment of hip osteoarthritis

The treatment of osteoarthritis is aimed at relieving pain and treating functional limitations. For this reason, the doctor may choose to prescribe certain medications to the patient.

• Painkillers, of which paracetamol is the most commonly used, are the most commonly prescribed drugs. They reduce pain and improve joint stiffness.
• NSAIDS are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and are used when the pain cannot be controlled with paracetamol.
• Chondroprotectors are made up of components of articular cartilage and taking them can help reduce pain. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are part of this group.
• Interarticular therapy or infiltrations consists of administering anti-inflammatory substances into the joint. In most cases, they inject glucocorticoids and hyaluronic acid.

In addition, a doctor will recommend adopting a healthier lifestyle and, if necessary, taking some measures to relieve discomfort – such as applying cold compresses and physical therapy.

According to Dr. Alexandra Villa-Forte, applying cold compresses (ice, for example) can help relieve pain caused by the inflammation in the joint.

Good habits are the best support

Adopting and maintaining good posture, avoiding overuse or misuse of the joints, exercising regularly, taking measures to prevent or reverse obesity, and wearing appropriate footwear are some of the most recommended measures by experts for well-being of patients with hip osteoarthritis.

Remember that the possibilities for practicing a physical activity will vary from person to person. Therefore, people with hip osteoarthritis should always consult their own doctor.