You probably didn’t realize how much you depend upon your hip until the arthritis began. Walking, sitting, even standing still all require the support and stability of your hip joint. However, when the cartilage which provides cushioning and support is affected by arthritis, all of these actions can become more difficult and even painful. Fortunately, expert treatment is available for arthritis in hip joints like yours. Get the facts about your condition from the experienced orthopaedists at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute. Empowered by this knowledge, you can begin your road to recovery and soon return to the activities you love.
What Causes Arthritis in Hip Joints?
There are a number of different forms of arthritis in hip joints. However, all of them share the common attributes of cartilage loss which leads to pain and stiffness. When healthy, the bones of your hip joint are lined with a soft, smooth layer of cartilage. This substance provides support and stability, as well as allowing for the bones to move smoothly over one another. However, cartilage, by nature, does not heal well, so once it is injured or has degenerated, you are left with the painful condition of bone rubbing against bone. Often, this pain is accompanied by swelling, stiffness, and weakness.
What Treatments Are Available?
Fortunately, there are a number of treatments available for those suffering from arthritis in hip joints. On the more conservative end of treatments, your doctor may recommend activity modification, weight loss, or certain medications. Typically, these will be most effective in cases of arthritis which have been diagnosed in the early stages.
For cases which are more severe, a surgical treatment may be the best option. For example, total hip replacement allows orthopaedic surgeons to remove the damaged elements of the hip joint and replace them with metal, ceramic and plastic prostheses. This prosthetic hip is then able to fulfill the same function as the original joint without the pain of bone rubbing against bone.
When determining which course of treatment may be the best option for you, your doctor will consider a variety of factors include: your age, your weight, the severity of your condition, and your overall health history.
Rothman Orthopaedic Institute
Whether you are at the stage of seeking diagnosis or a total joint replacement, Rothman Orthopaedic Institute is the orthopaedic practice you can trust. As one of the nation’s top joint replacement programs, our specialists perform over 9,000 surgeries annually. Additionally, our hip specialists have focused on this particular area of orthopaedics in their study and practice, ensuring that they offer patients like you a superior knowledge and expertise in this area. For more information, or to make an appointment, contact us today at 1-800-321-9999.
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