Hip Arthritis or Hip Osteoarthritis
Hip arthritis is caused by the wearing down of the cartilage that cushions the hip joint, leading to pain, stiffness and loss of mobility. Common symptoms of hip arthritis include:
- Pain in the hip, groin or knee
- Stiffness in the hip, especially in the morning or after sitting
- Decreased range of motion
- A grating or crunching sensation in the hip joint
- Swelling around the hip joint
The hip flexion adduction test involves bringing the knee to the chest while keeping the foot on the opposite knee. This test can help reproduce groin pain in individuals with hip arthritis.
Some exercises that can help alleviate pain from hip arthritis include:
- Gentle range-of-motion exercises for the hip joint
- Stretching and strengthening exercises for the muscles supporting the hip joint
- Aquatic therapy or swimming
- Tai chi or yoga
- Low-impact aerobic exercise such as cycling or elliptical training
Preventative measures to slow down the progression of hip arthritis or avoid surgery include:
- Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress on the hip joint
- Regular exercise to maintain flexibility and strength in the hip joint
- Staying active and participating in low-impact activities
- Avoiding high-impact activities or sports that place excessive stress on the hip joint
- Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your diet and avoiding foods that may contribute to inflammation.
It is always important to consult with a doctor before starting any new exercise or treatment program for hip arthritis.
