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Hip pain and stiffness prevents you from enjoying your
life. Sometimes this causes you to rest frequently. In time you lose your
strength and flexibility. Frustration and depression may develop in some
patients because of your inability to work at your job or enjoy your daily
activities.
Physicians may examine you and treat your conditions based
on your personal health history. Some conditions can be treated by medications
both non-prescription and prescription drugs to reduce the inflammation and swelling associated with hip pain.
Your
doctor or osteopath may prescribe a weight loss program, some
moderate exercises, or physical therapy and a reduction in activities to reduce
your pain and swelling.
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of disease causing
bone and joint deterioration. After the age of 55, it is the leading cause of
disability. The cartilage, the smooth lining that covers the hip joint, breaks
down causing the underlining bones to wear against each other which results in
severe pain and stiffness. This is most commonly known as "the wear and
tear disease."
Rheumatoid arthritis is the second most common form of
bone and joint disease. It is systemic and attacks any and all joints of the
body. Both young and old patients are diagnosed with this disease, unfortunately
more women than men. This disease attacks and destroys the synovial lining of
the joint capsule and the cartilage of the joints causing major joint damage,
pain, swelling, and immobility.
Trauma related arthritis is the third most common form.
This is a result of an injury to a joint in the body. This too causes pain,
immobility, and loss of function due to joint damage.
Of all the different procedures available to alleviate
your pain, the total hip replacement provides the best long term relief. This
surgical procedure replaces the head of the femur and the socket of the pelvis
with artificial joints. This has been a successful operation for many years.
The only indications for total hip replacements are hip
pain at night, pain interfering with your work or daily activities, or pain
associated with activities. If you feel you may be a candidate for total hip
replacement or need to be evaluated further
The hip joint is a very strong and stable "ball
and socket" joint. The femoral head or "ball" articulates
with the "socket" of the pelvis commonly known as the acetabulum.
The femoral head is the ball shaped upper portion of the femur (thigh
bone). The acetabulum or socket of the pelvis is made up of the iliac,
pubic, ischial bones of the pelvis. Cartilage covers the hip joint which
protects and cushions the bones while in motion. The synovial lining
surrounds the hip joint providing moisturizing lubricant. Ligaments bring
together the bones of the joints holding them in place. Muscles and
tendons add strength and elasticity to keep the joint stable. |
