Hip arthritis

Need to know

• What are the symptoms of hip arthritis? icon plus

  Symptoms vary but may include:

  • groin pain, which can radiate down the thigh or to the buttock
  • reduced tolerance to exercise (and often limping)
  • stiffness and difficulty performing everyday tasks such as putting on shoes and socks
  • pain at night

• Diagnosing hip arthritis icon plus

  Your consultant will take your full medical history and perform a physical examination to determine whether you have hip arthritis.
  
  This will include performing some basic leg exercises whilst lying down. Your consultant may also manipulate your hip joints to see how they respond and ask you to describe the sensations you are experiencing.

• Potential treatment options icon plus

  Hip arthritis symptoms can be conservatively managed to minimise discomfort.
  Treatment options include:

  • A walking stick to reduce the weight and strain on your hip.
  • Physiotherapy and regular physical exercise to keep your muscles strong and reduce pressure on your joints.
  • Anti-inflammatory medications.

  However, if your symptoms are bad enough, a hip replacement will give excellent relief and should allow you to return to normal activities without pain.