Hip Osteoarthritis

Hip osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage and other tissues in the joint break down or have a change in their structure. This doesn’t happen simply from wear and tear on the joint. Instead, changes in the tissues trigger the breakdown, which typically happens gradually over time. The damaged tissues include the cartilage, tendons and ligaments, synovial membrane, and bone. In some instances, osteoarthritis can develop over time in individuals with predisposing risk factors such as dysplasia, trauma, femoroacetabular impingement and fracture.

As osteoarthritis progresses the articular cartilage becomes thinner, which can be associated with labral tears, and this results in a decrease in the protective cushioning provided by both the cartilage and labrum.  A resultant inflammatory response exacerbates cartilage degradation, contributing to a cycle of joint destruction. Bone spurs form further compromising joint integrity. As the damage progresses pain, swelling and reduced range of motion occur. Pain reduces activity and leads to muscle weakness which further stresses the joint.

• Pain when using the joint, which can improve with rest. The pain may be felt in the hip joint, the groin, inner thigh or buttocks. Sometimes it can radiate into the knees. Sometimes the pain is worse at night. The pain can be localized or widespread. Pain during activities such as walking, climbing stairs or rising from a seated position.
• Joint stiffness in the morning or after a period of inactivity.
• Reduced range of motion.
• Swelling in and around the joint, especially with activity.

Several factors contribute to the risk of developing hip arthritis:

• Age: The risk increases with age, reflecting accumulated stress on the joint and decreased ability for tissue repair.
• Sex: Women are more likely than men to develop osteoarthritis of the hip.
• Genetics: Family history can play a role, indicating a genetic predisposition.
• Obesity: Increased body weight places additional strain on weight-bearing joints, particularly the knees and hips.
• Joint Injury: Traumatic injuries can lead to the early onset of hip osteoarthritis.
• Overuse of the joint: Jobs and sports that require repetitive movements of the joint.
• Pre-disposing conditions: Hip impingement, dysplasia, labral tears.

Diagnosis is based on a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging studies. Your Hyper Regen Sports Medicine professional will obtain a detailed medical history including your symptoms, their duration and the progression of symptoms. They will inquire about a history of hip injuries, surgeries and other medical conditions that could impact the hip. Other information about daily activities, occupation, sports and any family history of osteoarthritis can be relevant.

Physical examination often reveals reduced joint mobility and pain on specific movements. Muscle strength and joint stability will also be evaluated.

X-rays are indispensable to demonstrate characteristic changes such as joint space narrowing, bone spur formation, and hardening of the bone under the cartilage.  Advanced imaging modalities like Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) may be useful in cases where more detailed visualization is required, although they are generally not necessary for diagnosis.