Types of Hip Arthritis

There are numerous types of arthritis affecting the joints of the hip, which result in degeneration and/or inflammation, which may result in stiffness and loss of mobility.

Osteoarthritis: This is the most common form of arthritis found in the hip. It means “arthritis of the bone.” Osteoarthritis is far more common in the elderly and referred to as “wear and tear” on the joints. When the smooth cartilage in the joint wears away, the exposed bones, which contain nerve endings, may rub together and cause pain. This form of arthritis typically leads to degeneration and permanently damages the joint.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: This auto-immune disorder affects the entire body, rather than just the hip joint and is caused by an auto-immune response in which the synovial lining that surrounds the joint capsule becomes swollen and inflamed, and secretes enzymes which degrade and break down the cartilage, exposing the bone, which results in pain and, eventually, deterioration of the bone and joint.

Psoriatic Arthritis: This less common form of arthritis is often related to the skin disease, psoriasis. It can cause stiffness, swelling, and pain in any joint. Generally, patients will have the skin disease first, characterized by scaly red patches on the skin; however, it is possible to develop the arthritis form of the condition first.

Symptoms of Hip Arthritis

All types of arthritis of the hip share the same symptoms, which may include the following:

• Pain in and around the hip, primarily involving the thigh and groin regions, and occasionally the buttock regions
• Difficulty walking
• Pain with prolonged or vigorous activity
• Stiffness or limited range of motion
• Pain that is worse in the morning, or after a period of inactivity but that lessens after light activity or stretching

Treatment for Hip Arthritis

There are a number of treatment options for hip arthritis and these are most often based on the severity of your symptoms and how far the arthritis has progressed.

Dr. Nicholas Alexander is the Founder of Mahwah Valley Orthopedic Associates and a Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon specializing in both the surgical and non-surgical treatment of hip and knee conditions.  Dr. Alexander completed his Fellowship in Adult Reconstruction and Reconstructive Surgery of the Hip and Knee at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and has over two decades of experience. He also serves as the Chairman of the Valley Hospital Total Joint Center. Dr. Alexander has offices in Mahwah and Clifton, NJ.  If you, or someone you love, is considering treatment for a hip or knee injury, contact us today for a consultation.