Arthritis of the Hip

Arthritis is a very common hip problem, particularly in older people or in people who have had a prior hip injury. Symptoms of arthritis of the hip include pain in the hip area which may radiate into the groin and into the thigh. Frequently this pain is worse when getting up from a sitting position or when walking. The hip may also catch, pop or give way. Once the arthritis is present, it tends to gradually get worse, although the course of arthritis is quite variable.

The treatment for arthritis is moderate exercise to strengthen the muscles around the joint, particularly non-impact exercises such as swimming or water aerobics. Heat or ice also frequently help with the symptoms, particularly towards the end of the day. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines will help to relieve a great deal of discomfort. Ultimately, a total hip replacement surgery may be required. While this is a major surgery, it is usually quite effective in relieving the pain associated with hip arthritis.

For more information about arthritis of the hip, please call (918) 494-AOOK (2665).