Rothman Orthopaedic Institute can help determine what treatment options are right for you.
Hip Arthritis in South Philadelphia and the Diseases that Cause It
While you may think of hip arthritis as a disease in and of itself, the word “arthritis” simply means “inflammation of a joint,” which is a symptom rather than a disease or disorder of its own. Hip arthritis is actually caused by a variety of different disorders. The five most common are:
1. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis, also known as Degenerative Joint Disease, is the most common cause of
hip arthritis in South Philadelphia. Degenerative Joint Disease happens when the
cartilage in a joint erodes from a lifetime of usage. This erosion can cause pain and swelling. Osteoarthritis primarily occurs in the hip and knee, as these are the major weight bearing joints of the body. Osteoarthritis is the most common of all joint disorders, and often runs in families. It can also be caused by obesity, which puts extra stress on hips and knees.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic autoimmune disease, meaning that the immune
system attacks parts of the body itself, and that those attacks are not localized to one
area. When the immune system attacks the synovium and synovial fluid, a membrane and fluid which protect and lubricate joints, it can cause inflammation, as well as long-term degradation of bones and cartilage. The cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown.
3. Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic Arthritis is an inflammatory arthritis that accompanies the skin condition
psoriasis in 30% of patients. This form of arthritis can affect just one joint, or many joints
throughout the body. The actual cause of psoriatic arthritis is unknown, and the condition can affect people of any age.
4. Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing Spondylitis is a disorder that causes inflammation of the lower spine and the
major joints of the body, especially those like the hips, which connect to the pelvis. This
disorder is thought to be related to genetics, however, no definitive cause has been discovered. Ankylosing Spondylitis commonly begins when a person is in their teens or twenties.
5. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, more commonly known as just “Lupus,” is an
autoimmune disorder in which the body is attacked by its own immune system. Lupus
attacks many systems of the body, including the skin, bones, joints, brain, and internal
organs. People who suffer from Lupus often experience arthritis in various joints
throughout the body. Most lupus sufferers are women, and are often diagnosed in early adulthood.
Treating Hip Arthritis
For those suffering from hip arthritis in South Philadelphia, a variety of treatment options are available, and may vary due to the underlying cause of the disorder. Doctors often prescribe physical therapy, light exercise, weight loss, or other lifestyle changes. Over the counter pain medication is also a common treatment for arthritis. In some cases, if the injury to the joint is more advanced, cortisone injections or surgery may be an option. Physicians at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute are here to help you or your loved one manage your hip arthritis in South Philadelphia. Contact us today at 800.321.9999
