In Osteoarthritis, the cartilage of the hip joint gradually wears away.

This results in rusting of bones and causes pain and limitation of movement.

OA develops slowly and the pain becomes worse over times.

The two main types of OA are:

• Primary – Most common Osteoarthritis that develops with age.
• Secondary – Osteoarthritis occurs after injury or inflammation in a joint.

Cause

Osteoarthritis has no single specific cause, but there are certain factors that may make you more likely to develop the disease, including:

• Increasing age
• Family history of osteoarthritis
• Previous injury to the hip joint
• Obesity
• Improper formation of the hip joint at birth, a condition known as developmental dysplasia of the hip.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of hip osteoarthritis is pain around the hip joint. Usually, the pain develops slowly and worsens over time, although sudden onset is also possible. Pain and stiffness may be worse in the morning, or after sitting or resting for a while. Over time, painful symptoms may occur more frequently, including during rest or at night. Additional symptoms may include:

• Pain in your groin or thigh that radiates to your buttocks or your knee
• Pain increases with activity
• Stiffness in the hip joint that makes it difficult to walk or bend
• “Locking” or “clicking” of the joint, and a grinding noise (crepitus) during movement caused by loose fragments of cartilage
• Decreased range of motion in the hip that affects the ability to walk and may cause a limp

Diagnosis

X-rays of an arthritic hip may show a narrowing of the joint space, changes in the bone, and the formation of bone spurs (osteophytes).

Other imaging tests:

MRI scan, a computed tomography (CT) scan, or a bone scan may be needed to better determine the condition of the bone and soft tissues of your hip.

Treatment

Nonsurgical Treatment

Lifestyle modifications. Some changes in your daily life can protect your hip joint and slow the progress of osteoarthritis.

• Minimizing activities that aggravate the condition, such as climbing stairs.
• Switching from high-impact activities (like jogging or tennis) to lower impact activities (like swimming or cycling)
• Losing weight can reduce stress on the hip joint, resulting in less pain and increased function.

Physical therapy. Specific exercises can help increase range of motion and flexibility, as well as strengthen the muscles in your hip and leg.

Assistive devices. Using walking supports like a cane, crutches, or a walker can improve mobility and independence.

Your doctor may add medication to your treatment plan.

Surgical Treatment

Your doctor may recommend surgery if your pain from arthritis causes disability and is not relieved with nonsurgical treatment.

Total hip replacement. surgeon will remove both the damaged acetabulum and femoral head, and then position new metal, plastic or ceramic joint surfaces to restore the function of your hip