Hip Arthritis Signs and Symptoms

Hip Arthritis Signs and Symptoms

The hip is a large weight-bearing ball and socket joint that moves and stabilizes the torso and lower body. Hip arthritis is a common condition that slowly destroys hip cartilage and tissue and causes the bones of the hip to rub together and cause debilitating pain.

Patients who are worried about hip arthritis should be aware of the common signs and symptoms. Being informed enables patients to know when to make an appointment with one of the Board Certified Orthopedic Specialists at The Orthopaedic Institute Brielle Orthopaedics. Keep in mind that receiving an early diagnosis and effective treatment plan that decreases symptoms and stops arthritis progression.

Below are some of the common symptoms and risk factors of hip arthritis:

#1: Pain and Stiffness

Pain and stiffness are the two most common hip arthritis symptoms. Both may be experienced in the hip or groin and they may begin as a dull ache and progressively get worse if arthritis is not treated.

Symptoms may make it hard to perform normal day to day activities like getting up, sitting down, leaning over, and walking. Symptoms may become worse with physical activity and weather changes. Severe arthritis may cause a grinding, catching, or locking sensation in the joint.

#2: Risk Factors

Arthritis usually affects middle-aged and older patients (50+) and is often associated with the aging process. A previous injury may cause early onset arthritis in patients of any age, especially if the injury severely damaged hip cartilage, bone, or anatomy. Additional risk factors include:

· Developmental hip dysplasia
· Family history of osteoarthritis
· Obesity

#3: Physical Examination and X-rays

During an appointment with one of our Orthopedic Specialists, a physical examination tests joint mobility and strength to see if arthritis is present and causes movement-related symptoms. X-rays also help show the femur and acetabulum joint and if they show signs of hip arthritis. Decreased joint space and bone spurs are usually visible on the X-ray and is an arthritis indicator. Non-weight-bearing and weight-bearing x-rays show the joint at rest and when standing and this is important because joint space narrowing may not be seen at rest.

The patient’s symptoms and risk factors, physical examination and x-rays are usually enough to diagnose arthritis and determine its severity. Based on the severity, our Orthopedic Specialists will create a customized treatment plan for you.

Making an Appointment

Arthritis is a chronic condition and its progression can be slowed down and symptoms can be treated, but the condition cannot be cured. An early diagnosis is important because nonsurgical treatment options can quickly and effectively decrease symptoms.

If you experience hip arthritis symptoms, please contact our offices in Wall, Freehold, Toms River, Manahawkin or Red bank to make an appointment with one of our Orthopedic Specialists. Our goal is to get you back to an active and healthy life using a treatment plan customized to you and your goals!