Arthritis is a painful condition that affects any joint in the body or “inflammation of the joint” that affects the mobility of a person. As a weight bearing joint, the hip is susceptible to wear and tear caused by overuse.
Some cases of hip arthritis are due to osteoarthritis changes in the joint of the hips. People over the age of 50 years are more susceptible, but anyone can also develop the condition. If this condition is left untreated, the symptoms can become worse and causes stiffness and pain of the joint of the hips.
Causes of hip arthritis
- Individuals who are suffering from osteoarthritis which is a condition that involves gradual breakdown of cartilage found in the hip.
- The condition can also be due to heredity.
- Children suffering from hip diseases such as dysplasia of hip during childhood have a high risk of developing childhood hip arthritis.
- Avascular necrosis is a condition in which tissues of the bone dies due to the disruption in the proper flow of blood to the hip joint. This condition can also cause hip arthritis. Avascular necrosis is due to excessive consumption of alcohol and using steroid medications.
- A past history of having a fracture or trauma of the hip joint.
- Ball of the femur bone dislocation from its socket caused by trauma can also cause hip arthritis.
- Obesity adds weight on the joint that can lead to hip arthritis
Symptoms
- Pain can be felt in the buttocks and thigh upon getting up in the morning.
- Discomfort and stiffness in the thigh and groin area.
- Pain and difficulty in walking after sitting for long periods of time. The pain can be dull or quick and minimized when the affected person is resting.
- A deformity of the leg where the affected side of the hip becomes short.
- A crackling sensation can be felt in the joint of the hip and becomes tender when touched.
- There is difficulty in climbing stairs and when folding the leg while entering a vehicle.
Treatment and home remedies
- The individual should rest in order to minimize symptoms of the condition. Avoid engaging in any physical activities which can worsen the condition.
- Consume foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids such as flax seeds and fish.
- Apply alternate hot and cold compress on the affected side of the hip to help minimize the pain and stiffness.
- Avoid being obese by maintaining a healthy weight
- Perform regular exercises such as swimming which is highly recommended for people suffering from hip arthritis as well as helping in building up strength.
- Take supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin since these helps in regenerating the cartilages.
- Changing regular activities from time to time to help minimize stress on the hips.
FACT CHECK
https://www.healthline.com/health/osteoarthritis/hip-treatments
https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/osteoarthritis-of-the-hip/
https://www.webmd.com/osteoarthritis/hip-osteoarthritis-degenerative-arthritis-hip#1