Hip Pain
The hip is an important joint as it controls a range of movements, such as stretching and bending. It also supports the body during walking, standing and running. The joint consists of a ball and a socket which are connected to each other by bands known as ligaments; these are lubricated to guard against friction. Cartilage surrounds the joint and helps to stop the bones from rubbing together.
What can cause hip pain?
Although injuries can be the root cause of hip pain, arthritis can also be a problem. Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage inside a hip joint wears away, so the bones rub against each other. In rheumatoid arthritis the immune system attacks the lining of the joint which results in pain and stiffness in the hip.
Non-surgical options
Medication can help with hip pain and there are a range of options available, including steroid injections, pain-relieving gels and creams as well as anti-inflammatory drugs. There are also drugs specifically aimed at tackling the immune system, which can help with rheumatoid arthritis – these are known as disease-modifying medications.
Physiotherapy can be very effective in tackling symptoms, as it strengthens the muscles which surround the joint, therefore improving flexibility, maintaining a range of movements and decreasing inflammation. It is also very important in rehabilitation after injury or an operation.
Surgery
Modern medicine offers two surgical options:
A hip arthroscopy – is effective in treating an impinged hip. It corrects damaged cartilage by using a key-hole technique. In some cases it can stop osteoarthritis from developing.
Hip replacement – is considered when a hip joint is severely damaged or worn out and non-invasive alternatives have failed to reduce pain. It is not a lengthy operation as it normally takes between an hour and an hour and a half. The worn out joint is removed and replaced with one made from artificial material. After the operation, it is normal to stay in hospital for up to a week and sticks or crutches are used for a few weeks thereafter. Exercise and physiotherapy are very important in the recovery process. Artificial hips do wear out over time but this depends on the material used; your surgeon will advise you on the best option for your needs.
This page is intended for information purposes only and should not replace advice that your relevant health professional would give you.
Qualifications
BSc MBBS FRCS(Ed) FRCS(Tr & Ortho)
Clinical Interests
Clinical interests include lower limb surgery including total hip and knee replacement and revision of previous hip...
Qualifications
BSc MBBS FRCS(Ed) FRCS(Tr & Ortho)
Clinical Interests
Clinical interests include lower limb surgery including total hip and knee replacement and revision of previous hip...
Qualifications
MBBS, BSc, MRCS, FRCS.
Clinical Interests
Navigated hip and knee replacements. Review of metal on metal hips and resurfacing. The painful hip, the painful knee....
Qualifications
MBBS, BSc, MRCS, FRCS.
Clinical Interests
Navigated hip and knee replacements. Review of metal on metal hips and resurfacing. The painful hip, the painful knee....
Qualifications
MBBS (Lond), FRCS(ed), FRCS (eng), FRCS (Tr&Orth)
Clinical Interests
Hip and the knee joint including arthritis and knee ligament and meniscus injuries, Primary hip and knee replacements,...
Qualifications
MBBS (Lond), FRCS(ed), FRCS (eng), FRCS (Tr&Orth)
Clinical Interests
Hip and the knee joint including arthritis and knee ligament and meniscus injuries, Primary hip and knee replacements,...
Qualifications
BSc,
MBBS,
MRCS,
FRCS(T&O),
MD(Res),
Clinical Interests
Hip pain and surgery.
Knee injuries and knee pain.
Hip Arthroscopy with labral repair.
Hip replacement (complex and...
Qualifications
BSc,
MBBS,
MRCS,
FRCS(T&O),
MD(Res),
Clinical Interests
Hip pain and surgery.
Knee injuries and knee pain.
Hip Arthroscopy with labral repair.
Hip replacement (complex and...
Qualifications
BMSc(Hons), MB ChB, MRCS, FRCS(Tr&Orth)
Clinical Interests
Hip replacement (Primary, Complex Primary & Revision), knee replacement (Primary, Revision, Partial & Patella...
Qualifications
BMSc(Hons), MB ChB, MRCS, FRCS(Tr&Orth)
Clinical Interests
Hip replacement (Primary, Complex Primary & Revision), knee replacement (Primary, Revision, Partial & Patella...
