Osteoarthritis of the hip
What is Osteoarthritis of the hip?
Hip osteoarthritis is wear of the cartilage of the hip joint. As the joint surface deteriorates, the hip becomes painful, stiff and less tolerant of walking, sport, work and daily activities.
Common symptoms
Pain is commonly felt in the groin, buttock, thigh or knee. Patients often notice stiffness putting on shoes and socks, reduced walking distance, night pain, difficulty getting in and out of cars and loss of confidence with activity.
Diagnosis and imaging
Diagnosis is based on history, examination and standing pelvis and hip X-rays. Imaging assesses joint space narrowing, bone shape, deformity and severity. MRI may be used if symptoms and X-rays do not match or if another diagnosis is suspected.
Non-surgical treatment
Treatment includes exercise, physiotherapy, weight optimisation, activity modification, walking aids, anti-inflammatory medication and selected injections. The aim is to maintain mobility and quality of life for as long as symptoms remain manageable.
Surgical treatment
Total hip replacement is considered when pain, stiffness and functional loss remain unacceptable despite non-surgical care and imaging confirms advanced joint disease. Surgical planning is individualised to anatomy, bone quality and patient goals.
Recovery and follow-up
After hip replacement, mobilisation begins early and function improves progressively over weeks to months. The long-term goal is reliable pain relief, restored confidence and return to appropriate activity.
Osteoarthritis of the hip FAQs
Why does hip arthritis cause knee pain?
Hip joint pain can be referred to the thigh or knee through shared nerve pathways. A hip examination and X-ray can clarify the true source.
How is osteoarthritis of the hip diagnosed?
Diagnosis starts with a focused history and examination, then uses imaging selectively to confirm the pattern of injury, exclude related problems and plan treatment accurately.
When should hip replacement be considered?
It is considered when symptoms substantially limit life, sleep, work or activity, and non-surgical measures no longer provide acceptable control.
Will I need surgery for osteoarthritis of the hip?
Many patients improve without surgery. Surgery is considered when symptoms remain limiting despite appropriate non-surgical care, when there is significant structural damage, or when delay may compromise function.
When can I return to walking, golf or low-impact sport?
Return depends on the diagnosis, treatment type, tissue healing and the physical demands of the activity. The plan is usually staged, with strength, range of motion and confidence rebuilt before unrestricted loading.
Reconstructive Orthopaedics Melbourne (ROM)
We restore mobility, reduce pain, and improve quality of life — through reconstructive orthopaedic surgery driven by evidence and advanced biomechanics.