Osteoarthritis of the hip

Overview

Osteoarthritis of the hip is a condition where the smooth cartilage that cushions the hip joint wears down over time. This can cause pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving the hip.

Yes, hip osteoarthritis is very common, especially in older adults. It affects millions of people worldwide.

It most often affects people over 50, but can occur in younger people due to injury or other conditions. It is more common in women and those with a family history.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Pain in the hip, groin, or thigh that is worse with activity and better with rest.
• Stiffness in the hip, especially in the morning or after sitting for a while.
• Limited range of motion in the hip joint.
• A grinding or clicking sensation when moving the hip.
• Pain that may radiate to the knee or buttock.

Symptoms in children

• Osteoarthritis is very rare in children. Children with hip pain are more likely to have other conditions such as juvenile idiopathic arthritis or hip dysplasia.

Symptoms in older adults

• Same as common symptoms, but may be more severe.
• Pain may be present at rest or at night.
• Difficulty walking or climbing stairs.
• Hip may feel 'stuck' or stiff.

Causes

Main causes

• Aging and normal wear and tear on the hip joint.
• Genetics – some people inherit a tendency to develop osteoarthritis.
• Previous hip injury or trauma.
• Repetitive stress on the hip from certain jobs or sports.
• Being very overweight (obesity) puts extra pressure on the hip joint.

Risk factors

• Age over 50.
• Gender – women are more likely to develop it.
• Family history of osteoarthritis.
• Obesity.
• Past hip injury or surgery.
• Abnormal joint structure or hip dysplasia.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you cannot walk or bear weight on your hip.
• If you have severe pain after a fall or injury.
• If you have signs of infection (fever, redness, swelling).

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have hip pain that lasts more than a few weeks despite rest and self-care.
• If pain is affecting your daily activities or sleep.
• If you notice stiffness that does not improve with gentle movement.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will take a detailed history of your symptoms and do a physical exam of your hip. They may watch you walk and move your hip in different directions.

Tests that may be done

• X-rays – these can show loss of cartilage, bone spurs, and narrowing of the joint space.
• MRI scan – provides more detailed images of cartilage and soft tissues, but is not always needed.
• Blood tests – sometimes done to rule out other types of arthritis.

What to expect at your appointment

The diagnosis is usually made based on your symptoms and physical exam, with X-rays to confirm. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you and together you can create a treatment plan.

Treatment

Treatment for hip osteoarthritis focuses on relieving pain, improving function, and slowing the progression of joint damage. It usually starts with conservative (non-surgical) approaches.

Self-care at home

• Stay active with low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling.
• Use hot or cold packs on the painful area.
• Lose weight if you are overweight to reduce stress on the hip.
• Use a cane or walker if needed to take pressure off the painful hip.
• Practice gentle stretching and strengthening exercises.

Medical treatments

Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for short-term pain relief. They may also suggest prescription-strength pain relievers or creams. Physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles around the hip. In some cases, steroid injections into the joint may provide temporary relief. (Note: Do not name specific drugs or doses.)

When is surgery considered?

If other treatments do not provide enough relief, total hip replacement surgery may be considered. This involves replacing the damaged joint with an artificial one. It is usually very successful at relieving pain and improving mobility.

Living with this condition

Living with hip osteoarthritis means finding ways to manage pain and stay active. You may need to pace your activities and take breaks. Using assistive devices can help. It's important to keep moving gently to prevent stiffness.

Lifestyle tips

• Stay active with low-impact exercise most days of the week.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Use good body mechanics – avoid twisting or heavy lifting with the hip.
• Consider ergonomic changes at home, like a raised toilet seat or a chair with armrests.

Diet and exercise

A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help manage weight and reduce inflammation. Exercise like swimming, walking, and tai chi are gentle on the hip and improve strength and flexibility. Always check with your doctor before starting a new exercise program.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Chronic pain can affect your mood and mental well-being. It is common to feel frustrated or down at times. If you are feeling hopeless or depressed, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. There is support available. (Remember: If you are having thoughts of harming yourself, call your local emergency number or crisis helpline immediately.)

Prevention

You cannot always prevent osteoarthritis, but you can reduce your risk by maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and avoiding joint injuries. Once the condition develops, you can take steps to slow its progression.

Complications

If left untreated

• Chronic pain and disability.
• Muscle weakness around the hip.
• Difficulty walking or performing daily tasks.
• Development of bone spurs or deformity.
• Increased risk of falls due to instability.

Long-term outlook

With proper treatment and self-care, most people with hip osteoarthritis can manage their symptoms and maintain an active life. Hip replacement surgery, if needed, has a high success rate. The key is to work with your healthcare team and take an active role in your care.

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