Osteoarthritis (OA) of the hip is a condition in which the cartilage in the hip joints deteriorates. This causes sometimes severe pain and stiffness. Treatments range from pain medication and lifestyle changes to surgical intervention depending on the severity of the condition and the overall health of the patient. Aside from pain medication non-invasive treatments of osteoarthritis include stretching and special exercises to help improve range of motion and decrease pain. Surgical intervention of osteoarthritis of the hip can include hip replacement therapy. Unfortunately, osteoarthritis of the hip is a progressive disease worsening over time as the patient loses more and more cartilage. Fortunately, non-invasive treatments are often effective for years before surgery is required. After being diagnosed with osteoarthritis of the hip you can expect a physical exam from your physician which will reveal any swelling inflexibility tenderness and redness.
Other tests typically performed to better visualize the severity of your osteoarthritis may include fMRI, CT scan with contrast, fluoroscopy and x-rays. Pain is typically managed with NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory drugs) and in more severe cases narcotics or opioids. NSAIDs are a class of drugs that reduce inflammation thereby reducing pain and include over-the-counter medications such as Aleve (Naproxen Sodium) Ibuprofen (available over-the-counter as Motrin and Advil) and aspirin. Higher doses of these medications are available by prescription. Side effects of these medications can cause cardiovascular problems stomach upset and liver and kidney damage in some populations such as those over the age of 65. “If you’re worried about side-effects topical forms of these medications cause fewer adverse reactions.
One of the most effective therapies for Osteoarthritis is physical therapy. During treatment sessions patients will engage in low-impact strength training exercises stretches and range of motion exercises. In some cases, biofeedback may be used to reduce pain without medications.” Osteoarthritis can affect one side of the body more than the other which can cause pain and inflexibility that is more severe one the left side of the hip than the right side or vice versa.
Risk Factors of developing hip osteoarthritis are varied. Osteoarthritis is often referred to as age-related or wear and tear arthritis or more formally as “Degenerative Joint Disease”. It can involve any join t in the body and is the most common form of joint disorder in America effecting an estimated 27 million people in the US. It primarily involves the articular cartilage of the affected joint.
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1223 McDermott Suite 50
Allen, TX 75013
Phone: 972-359-1288
Fax: 972-359-9652
Hours: Monday – Thursday 7 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. Friday 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Contact us to set an Appointment