What Is Arthritic Hip Pain?
Arthritic hip pain refers to discomfort arising from inflammation and degeneration of the hip joint, most often due to osteoarthritis of the hip. This condition affects the hip joint’s structure and function by leading to the breakdown of cartilage, causing bones to rub together, resulting in pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility
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There are several common causes of arthritic hip pain, which will be discussed in the next section.
Where Is Arthritic Hip Pain Felt?
The location of arthritic hip pain can vary, but it is most commonly experienced:
- Groin area: The most frequent site, often described as a deep ache or sharp pain. Pain in the groin area is a key indicator of hip arthritis and suggests the hip joint itself is affected.
- Front of the thigh: Pain may radiate down towards the knee, and can also be felt in the upper thigh.
- Buttocks: Some patients report pain in the outer hip or buttock region.
- Side of the hip: Less commonly, pain can be felt on the lateral aspect of the hip.
- Outer thigh: Pain in the outer thigh may be related to bursitis or hip joint issues.
The specific affected area can help determine the underlying cause of pain.
Many people are surprised to learn that hip arthritis pain is often felt in the groin or thigh, rather than directly over the hip joint itself
2. Identifying the painful area and where the pain is coming from can help diagnose which tissues are affected.
Symptoms of Arthritic Hip Pain
- Persistent or intermittent pain in the groin, thigh, or buttocks that may get worse with certain activities or as the condition progresses
- Stiffness, especially after periods of inactivity
- Swelling in the hip area, often associated with inflammation or injury
- Reduced range of motion in the hip
- Difficulty walking, standing, or climbing stairs, as hip arthritis affects daily activities such as walking, dressing, or going upstairs
- Clicking, grinding, or catching sensations in the hip
- Other symptoms may include muscle weakness, inflammation, or tenderness around the joint
What Causes Arthritic Hip Pain?
The primary cause is osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease that commonly affects large joints like the hip, but can also involve small joints. Other contributing factors include:
- Previous hip injuries
- Genetic predisposition
- Family history of osteoarthritis
- Obesity and excess weight
- Repetitive stress from sports or occupation
- Muscle weakness or strain
- Inflammatory conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), which can result from immune system dysfunction
Some changes seen on X-rays may be due to normal age related changes and do not always indicate disease. Additionally, pain caused by lower back problems or other sources can sometimes be mistaken for hip pain.
Anatomic Structure and Soft Tissue
The hip joint is one of the largest and most important joints in the body, designed as a classic ball and socket joint. It is formed where the rounded head of the thigh bone (femur) fits securely into the hip socket (acetabulum) of the pelvis. This unique structure allows for a wide range of movement, supporting normal activities like walking, bending, and sitting.
Surrounding the hip joint are layers of soft tissues, including muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These soft tissues play a crucial role in stabilizing the joint, supporting the bones, and helping to reduce friction during movement. Healthy soft tissue ensures that the hip moves smoothly and efficiently, minimizing wear and tear on the joint surfaces.
In cases of hip osteoarthritis or hip arthritis, the cartilage that cushions the bones can wear down, and the soft tissues may become inflamed or damaged. This can lead to hip pain, joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Understanding the anatomy and function of the hip joint and its soft tissues is essential for diagnosing the source of hip pain and developing effective treatment strategies for hip joint pain and osteoarthritis.
Case Study: Real Patient Experience
Case: A 62-year-old woman presented with persistent groin pain radiating to her thigh, worsening over 18 months. She struggled with walking and sleep. Imaging confirmed moderate hip osteoarthritis. After a course of prolotherapy at ProHealth Clinic, she reported a 70% reduction in pain and improved mobility, allowing her to return to gardening and daily walks.
— ProHealth Clinic Patient, 2023
Treatments for Arthritic Hip Pain
- Physical therapy: Targeted exercises to improve strength and flexibility. Simple exercises can be effective for improving strength and mobility.
- Medications: NSAIDs and pain relievers for symptom control. NSAIDs can help reduce inflammation.
- Weight management: Reducing load on the hip joint.
- Assistive devices: Canes or walkers to reduce strain.
- Injections: Corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid for temporary relief.
- Surgical options: Hip replacement for severe cases.
- Cold therapy: Applying a cold pack, such as a bag of frozen peas, to the affected area can help relieve pain and swelling.
Prolotherapy
In recent years, Prolotherapy has built its reputation within the medical community for its clinically proven ability to treat arthritic hip pain.
Published research has proven its pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory and regenerative benefits.
Prolotherapy involves injecting a natural regenerative solution with tiny needles. This has been shown to stimulate the production of collagen cells, the small cells needed to help with arthritic hip pain.
As prolotherapy is helping to treat the root cause of arthritic hip pain, it is deemed to be a permanent fix, preventing the symptoms from returning.
Hip Replacement Surgery
For individuals with severe hip osteoarthritis who have not found relief from other treatments, hip replacement surgery can offer a new lease on life. This procedure involves removing the damaged portions of the hip joint and replacing them with an artificial joint, typically made from durable metal and plastic materials. The goal is to restore smooth movement, reduce hip pain, and improve overall function.
Hip replacement surgery can be performed using traditional open techniques or minimally invasive approaches, depending on the patient’s needs and the surgeon’s expertise. After surgery, a period of rehabilitation is essential to regain strength, flexibility, and mobility in the hip joint. Most patients experience significant pain relief and are able to return to many of their normal activities.
If you are considering hip replacement surgery, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional who can assess your condition and help you decide if this treatment is right for you. With proper care and rehabilitation, hip replacement can be a highly effective solution for chronic hip pain and loss of movement due to osteoarthritis.
Preventing Hip Conditions
Taking steps to prevent hip conditions like hip osteoarthritis can help you maintain healthy hip joints and avoid future pain. Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most effective ways to reduce stress on the hip joint and lower your risk of developing osteoarthritis. Incorporating gentle exercise into your routine helps keep the muscles around the hip strong and flexible, supporting joint health and reducing stiffness.
It’s also important to avoid certain activities that put excessive strain on the hips, and to be mindful of previous injury, as these can increase your risk of joint pain and arthritis. Managing underlying health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis can further protect your hips from inflammation and damage.
Using a walking aid, like a walking stick, can provide extra support if you experience hip pain or instability, especially during long periods of activity. Taking regular breaks to rest and stretch can also help prevent stiffness and discomfort. For personalized advice on preventing hip conditions and managing symptoms, consult a healthcare professional who can help you develop a plan tailored to your needs and lifestyle.
When to See a Specialist
If you experience persistent hip pain, difficulty walking, or your symptoms are affecting your quality of life, consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan. It is difficult to self diagnose hip arthritis, so a professional assessment is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does arthritic hip pain feel like?
Arthritic hip pain is often described as a deep, aching pain in the groin, thigh, or buttocks. It may worsen with activity and improve with rest.
Can hip arthritis cause knee pain?
Yes, hip arthritis can cause referred pain to the knee due to shared nerve pathways. This is a common reason for misdiagnosis
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Is walking good for arthritic hip pain?
Gentle walking can help maintain joint mobility and reduce stiffness. However, avoid overexertion and consult your healthcare provider for a personalised exercise plan.
How is arthritic hip pain diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves a clinical examination, medical history, and imaging such as X-rays or MRI to assess joint damage.
What is the success rate of prolotherapy for arthritic hip pain?
Studies show that prolotherapy can significantly reduce pain and improve function in patients with hip osteoarthritis, with many experiencing long-term relief
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Contact ProHealth Clinic Today for Your FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call
Don’t let arthritic hip pain control your life any longer. Join the thousands of patients who have found lasting relief through prolotherapy at ProHealth Clinic.
Get in Touch
- Phone: +441234380345
- Email: info@prohealthclinic.co.uk
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Author Bio
Having performed over 10,000 procedures, Mr Eaton is one of the UK’s leading practitioners in the field of treating arthritic hip pain, with patients travelling to see him from across the UK, Europe, and the Middle East.
With over 12 years of clinical experience, Oliver is dedicated to helping patients understand their symptoms associated with arthritic hip pain and providing effective treatment options to alleviate them.
He qualified in Prolozone Therapy and Prolotherapy in America with the American Academy of Ozonotherapy. He continued on to complete further qualifications at the Royal Society of Medicine, Charing Cross Hospital in London, Keele University’s Anatomy & Surgical Training Centre, and the medical department of Heidelberg University in Germany.
Over the years he has had the privilege of treating many elite-level athletes, including both Olympic and Commonwealth medallists.
References
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Osteoarthritis: care and management. NICE guideline [CG177]. 2023. View guideline
- Arden N, Nevitt MC. Osteoarthritis: epidemiology. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol. 2006;20(1):3-25. PubMed
- Birrell F, et al. Clinical assessment of the hip joint. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol. 2003;17(1):1-16. PubMed
- Rabago D, et al. Prolotherapy in primary care practice. Prim Care. 2010;37(1):65-80. PubMed