Treatment for Osteoarthritis of the Hip in Arlington, VA

Osteoarthritis is a common type of wear-and-tear arthritis that often develops gradually along with the natural aging process. The resulting degeneration can affect any joint in the body, but large weight-bearing joints such as the hips are especially vulnerable.

The bone surfaces in the hip are coated with smooth, slippery articular cartilage, which protects and cushions the bones during movement. Osteoarthritis causes the cartilage to break down and wear away, leaving the bone surfaces exposed and allowing them to grind together. In response, the body may produce “protective” bony deposits (bone spurs) on the damaged bones, which can further interfere with the function of the joint.

What Are the Symptoms of Osteoarthritis of the Hip?

Osteoarthritis of the hip can cause joint pain and stiffness that may interfere with daily activities, such as standing, bending and walking. The severity may increase after vigorous physical activity or extended rest. Also, loose cartilage fragments floating in the hip joint can cause a grinding sensation during movement (crepitus). While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, many people are able to stay active and manage their discomfort with treatment. The first step is seeing a physician for an accurate diagnosis.

How Is Osteoarthritis of the Hip Diagnosed?

Typically, a physician will begin by reviewing the patient’s medical history and discussing their symptoms, then perform a physical examination to check for signs of:

  • Pain and tenderness
  • Restricted range of motion
  • Crepitus
  • Gait issues
  • Injury to nearby muscles, tendons or ligaments

As part of the diagnostic process, the physician may also order imaging scans. X-rays of an arthritic hip may reveal a narrowing of the joint space, changes in the bones and/or the formation of bone spurs, while magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computerized tomography (CT) scans can help the physician evaluate any damage in the surrounding soft tissues.

How Is Osteoarthritis of the Hip Treated?

As with other types of arthritis, osteoarthritis of the hip is usually treated conservatively with a combination of:

  • Weight loss (if necessary)
  • Lifestyle modifications, such as switching from high-impact exercises such as jogging to low-impact activities such as swimming and cycling
  • Physical therapy, including targeted stretches and exercises to increase the range of motion and flexibility of the joint and strengthen the muscles in the hip and leg
  • Assistive walking supports, such as crutches, a cane or a walker
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Corticosteroid injections

Surgical treatment for osteoarthritis of the hip, such as joint resurfacing or a total hip replacement, may be considered if the pain does not respond to conservative treatment or causes disability.

Learn More

If you would like to learn more about osteoarthritis of the hip, contact Nirschl Orthopaedic Center at (703) 525-2200 to schedule an appointment with a hip specialist in Arlington, VA.