Hip pain is very common, especially as we get older. It can have many different causes, from muscle strains to serious conditions like arthritis. So how do you know if that nagging hip discomfort you feel could be a sign of arthritis?
What are the symptoms of hip arthritis?
The main symptoms of hip arthritis include:
- Pain in the hip joint that gets worse with activity and improves with rest
- Stiffness in the hip joint that is most noticeable first thing in the morning or after sitting for long periods
- Loss of flexibility and range of motion in the hip
- A crunching feeling or sound in the hip joint when moving
- Difficulty with everyday activities due to hip pain
If you have persistent hip discomfort that includes these symptoms, especially if it interferes with your daily activities, it could be caused by arthritis.
What are the most common types of hip arthritis?
There are a few different forms of arthritis that can affect the hip joint. These include:
- Osteoarthritis – The most common type that occurs with aging and wear and tear on the joint.
- Rheumatoid arthritis – An autoimmune form of arthritis that can affect the hips along with other joints.
- Post-traumatic arthritis – Develops after an injury like a hip fracture.
- Avascular necrosis – A condition where blood supply to the hip bone is disrupted, leading to damage.
Osteoarthritis is by far the most prevalent type of hip arthritis, making up more than 90% of cases. This condition develops slowly over time as the smooth cartilage lining the hip joint gradually wears away. As the cartilage breaks down, inflammation and pain occur.
What are the risk factors for hip arthritis?
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing degenerative hip arthritis. These include:
- Age – The risk rises significantly after age 50.
- Obesity – Extra body weight puts strain on the hip joints.
- Joint injuries – Past fractures, dislocations or surgeries can lead to arthritis later.
- Genetics – Some genetic factors are linked to higher arthritis risk.
- repetitive, high-impact activities – Certain sports and occupations put more wear and tear on hips.
There are some factors outside your control, like genetics and aging. But maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding joint injuries can help lower your chances of getting hip arthritis.
When should I see a doctor for hip pain?
It’s important to see your doctor if your hip pain:
- Has lasted more than a few days
- Is severe or keeps you awake at night
- Is associated with swelling, redness or warmth in the hip area
- Causes stiffness that makes it difficult to move your hip
- Got worse after a fall or injury
Persistent or worsening hip pain should not be ignored. Seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and get appropriate treatment. Arthritis can lead to permanent joint damage if left untreated.
How is hip arthritis diagnosed?
To diagnose hip arthritis, the doctor will:
- Ask about your symptoms and medical history
- Conduct a physical exam of your hip joint
- Order imaging tests – usually x-rays, sometimes MRI scans
- Analyze fluid or tissue samples if infection or another condition is suspected
On x-rays, osteoarthritis shows up as a narrowing of the space between the ball and socket of the hip joint. Bone spurs or cysts around the joint may also be visible. The pattern of damage seen on imaging can help confirm a diagnosis of hip arthritis.
How is hip arthritis treated?
Hip arthritis treatment focuses on relieving pain, maintaining mobility and improving quality of life. Options may include:
- Lifestyle changes – Losing weight, low-impact exercise, ice/heat therapy
- Physical therapy – Stretching, strengthening and range of motion exercises
- Medications – Anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesics, cortisone injections
- Supportive devices – Canes, walkers, raised toilet seats
- Surgery – Hip replacement or other procedures in severe cases
Most people start with conservative treatments focused on managing symptoms. If hip arthritis is severe and impairs daily function, hip replacement surgery may be considered to replace the damaged joint.
Can hip arthritis be prevented?
While you can’t entirely prevent the gradual wear and tear that leads to osteoarthritis, these proactive steps can help reduce your risk:
- Maintain a healthy weight to avoid putting extra stress on hip joints.
- Do low-impact physical activity to strengthen leg and hip muscles.
- Avoid repetitive motions that overwork the hip joints.
- Improve posture and gait to distribute weight evenly through the hips.
- Treat injuries promptly to prevent further joint damage.
Making smart lifestyle choices and keeping your hips healthy as you age can potentially slow the progression of arthritis.
What is the outlook for people with hip arthritis?
The prognosis for hip arthritis depends on several factors, including:
- Type and severity – Osteoarthritis develops slowly while rheumatoid arthritis can be more rapidly destructive.
- Age and overall health – Younger, healthier people typically respond better to treatment.
- Willingness to make lifestyle changes – Maintaining a healthy weight and staying active provide important benefits.
- Success of treatment – Severe cases may ultimately require surgery.
With the right combination of lifestyle adjustments, medical care, and monitoring of disease progression, many people with hip arthritis are able to manage their symptoms and continue to remain active.
When is hip replacement surgery necessary?
Hip replacement is typically considered when:
- Hip arthritis symptoms interfere severely with daily activities
- Pain persists at night or while resting
- Stiffness in the hip joint makes mobility very difficult
- Walking and other normal movements become extremely painful
- Other treatments like medications, injections and therapy no longer provide relief
- The hip joint is severely damaged based on x-rays
Joint replacement surgery is a major procedure, so doctors generally recommend trying other options first. But if hip arthritis is disabling and impacting quality of life, hip replacement can be very effective at restoring mobility and function.
How long does hip replacement surgery recovery take?
The typical hip replacement recovery timeline is:
- Early recovery – Hospital stay is 1-3 days. You’ll be up moving with support to prevent blood clots.
- 1-3 months – Use a walker or cane. Participate in physical therapy. Swelling and soreness improve.
- 3-6 months – Typically return to most normal activities. Driving allowed at around 4-6 weeks.
- 1 year – Fully recover strength and mobility. Restrictions on high impact activities may remain.
Completely healing and adapting to a hip implant takes at least a year for most patients. Close follow-up with your surgeon and physical therapy can help optimize your hip replacement results.
What exercises and stretches help hip arthritis?
Low-impact, hip-friendly exercises that can relieve arthritis pain and stiffness include:
- Knee-to-chest – Pull knee toward chest until a stretch is felt in the buttock, hamstring and hip.
- Hip abduction – Lying on your side, slide your top leg up and down against gravity.
- Mini squats – Perform shallow squatting motion, keeping feet shoulder width apart.
- Calf and hamstring stretches – On a step, plant ball of foot and let heel stretch down.
- Hip flexor stretch – From a lunge position, shift hips forward until stretch felt in front of hip.
Low-impact aerobic activities like water exercises, cycling and walking can also improve endurance and function. But check with your doctor to ensure exercises don’t further aggravate your hip arthritis.
What are the best shoes for hip arthritis?
Look for these features in arthritis-friendly shoes:
- Thick, shock-absorbing sole
- Stability and motion control
- Roomy toe box
- Extra depth
- Minimal heels or flares
- Lightweight
- Cushioned insole
- Easy slip-on style
Options like quality athletic shoes, flats, velcro shoes or slippers can take pressure off arthritic hip joints. Proper footwear provides padding and keeps you stable as you walk.
Is losing weight beneficial for hip arthritis?
Yes, shedding excess pounds can significantly reduce strain on hip joints affected by arthritis. Studies show that losing weight lowers risk of developing hip arthritis symptoms and leads to less arthritis-related pain and disability.
Just a small amount of weight loss of 5-10% of your body weight can make a noticeable difference in hip arthritis symptoms. Combine a balanced, calorie-controlled diet with regular exercise suitable for your arthritis to help achieve weight loss goals.
What assistive devices help hip arthritis?
Devices that can aid with hip arthritis mobility and pain include:
- Canes or walkers to improve stability and take pressure off hips
- Grab bars for assistance standing up and sitting down
- Raised toilet seat to reduce bending
- Reacher or long-handled tool to pick items up off the floor
- Jar opener for twisting caps and lids
- Shower bench or chair for bathing safely
There are many products and gadgets that can make daily tasks requiring hip movements less painful. An occupational therapist can recommend helpful assistive devices based on your needs.
Conclusion
Living with hip arthritis can be challenging. But understanding the condition, staying active and using both medical and self-help strategies enables many people to manage their symptoms successfully. Anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, losing excess weight and using assistive devices are all important components of effective hip arthritis treatment.
While arthritis can’t be cured, it is possible to prevent permanent joint damage and disability with appropriate care. If conservative treatments no longer provide adequate relief, hip replacement surgery is an option to dramatically improve mobility and quality of life.
Being proactive about your hip health by exercising, maintaining a healthy weight and having regular exams can help keep arthritis symptoms in check. Work closely with your healthcare providers to find the optimal treatment plan for your individual hip arthritis needs.