Many people experience pain or stiffness in the hip as they age, but aren’t sure what’s causing it or how to manage it. Here are seven frequently asked questions about hip osteoarthritis, answered gently and clearly by a board-certified orthopedic specialist.

What is hip osteoarthritis and what causes it?

Hip osteoarthritis is a condition where the cartilage in the hip joint wears down over time. It’s usually caused by aging, but can also result from joint injuries, overuse, or structural issues like hip dysplasia.

What symptoms are common with hip osteoarthritis?

People often feel pain in the groin or thigh, stiffness in the hip, and reduced mobility. It can be hard to walk, climb stairs, or get up from a chair, especially in the morning or after sitting.

How is hip osteoarthritis diagnosed?

A doctor diagnoses it based on your symptoms, a physical exam, and imaging tests like X-rays or MRI, which help show cartilage loss, joint space narrowing, or bone spurs.

Is walking helpful or harmful for hip osteoarthritis?

Gentle walking is usually helpful because it keeps the joint moving and muscles strong. However, too much activity or walking on hard surfaces may worsen symptoms, so balance is important.

What non-surgical treatments are available?

Non-surgical options include pain medications, physical therapy, activity modification, weight loss, and injections such as hyaluronic acid or PRP to help manage symptoms.

When should I consider surgery for hip osteoarthritis?

Surgery, like a total hip replacement, may be recommended when daily activities are difficult due to pain, and other treatments are no longer effective.

Can regenerative medicine help with hip osteoarthritis?

Many people ask this. PRP and stem cell therapy are emerging options that may reduce inflammation and improve symptoms in early to moderate stages, without surgery.

We hope this FAQ helped clarify some of the common concerns about hip osteoarthritis. If you’re experiencing persistent hip pain, we encourage you to speak with a specialist to explore your options.

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