Hip Arthritis

Osteoarthritis of the hip is a common degenerative joint condition that typically affects older adults. We are here to help you relieve your pain so you can regain as much of your mobility and independence as possible.

Hip Arthritis

Office Hours

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Introduction

Osteoarthritis occurs when the smooth cartilage that cushions your joints wears down over time. Without this protective layer, the joint can become irritated, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and trouble moving comfortably. At Premier Podiatry & Orthopedics, our hip specialists can evaluate your hip with a physical exam and X-rays, then guide you through the best treatment and rehabilitation options to help you stay active and feel your best.

What Are the Symptoms of Hip Arthritis?

Hip arthritis often develops gradually, and symptoms may come and go at first. Common signs include:

Pain in the groin, thigh, or buttock, especially during weight-bearing activities
Stiffness, particularly after sitting or sleeping
Reduced range of motion that makes everyday movements, like putting on shoes, more difficult
A feeling of grinding, catching, or locking in the joint
Limping due to discomfort or weakened muscles
Swelling or tenderness around the hip

These symptoms typically worsen over time as the joint cartilage wears down.

Treatments for Hip Arthritis

While arthritis is an irreversible disease, treatment for hip arthritis usually focuses on reducing pain, improving mobility, and helping you stay active. Common options include:

Lifestyle changes
- Staying active with low-impact exercises like walking, an exercise bike, or swimming
- Losing weight to reduce pressure on the hip
Physical therapy
- Strengthening the muscles around the hip
- Improving flexibility and balance
Medications
- Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers such as acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen
- With more severe pain that doesn’t respond to OTC medications, prescription NSAIDs may be necessary
Injections
- Cortisone shots can temporarily reduce inflammation and pain
Surgery
- If symptoms become severe and other treatments don’t help, feel free to seek the help of our hip replacement specialist, Dr. Scott Fujii, to learn more about hip replacement surgery

Most people start with the least invasive options and only move to surgery if needed.

What is Involved in Hip Replacement Surgery?

Hip replacement surgery involves removing the damaged parts of the hip joint and replacing them with artificial components made of metal, ceramic, and/or plastic. The surgeon removes the worn-down ball at the top of the thighbone, fits a new one, and then lines the hip socket with a smooth, durable surface.

The goal is to reduce pain and restore movement. Most people walk with assistance the same day or the next, and recovery continues over several weeks with physical therapy to rebuild strength and mobility.

Quality and Compassionate Hip Care

We provide quality, compassionate care for patients with hip arthritis by truly listening to their concerns, offering clear guidance, and tailoring treatment to their individual needs. Our team focuses on relieving pain, improving mobility, and supporting each person through every step, whether that means lifestyle changes, therapy, or surgical options.

We combine medical expertise with empathy, ensuring patients feel informed, supported, and cared for throughout their journey to better hip health.

References

Hannon CP, Delanois RE, Nandi S, Fillingham Y. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Clinical Practice Guideline Summary Management of Osteoarthritis of the Hip. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2024;32(20):e1027-e1034. doi:10.5435/JAAOS-D-24-00420.

Rees HW. Management of Osteoarthritis of the Hip. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2020;28(7):e288-e291. doi:10.5435/JAAOS-D-19-00416.

Katz JN, Arant KR, Loeser RF. Diagnosis and Treatment of Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis: A Review. JAMA. 2021;325(6):568-578. doi:10.1001/jama.2020.22171.