The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint that connects the thigh bone (femur) to the pelvis, allowing for smooth and stable movement. While the hip is built for durability, injuries and degenerative conditions can significantly impact mobility and quality of life.
Bursitis – Inflammation of the bursae (fluid-filled sacs) that cushion the hip joint, causing pain and stiffness.
Hip Fractures – Common among older adults due to osteoporosis, leading to severe pain and limited movement.
Avascular Necrosis (AVN) – Reduced blood supply to the femoral head, leading to bone tissue death.
Osteoarthritis – Gradual cartilage breakdown in the hip joint, causing chronic pain and stiffness.
Hip Impingement (FAI) – Abnormal bone growth in the hip joint leading to pain and restricted movement.
Hip Joint Infection (Septic Arthritis) – A bacterial or fungal infection in the hip joint causing intense pain, fever, swelling, and difficulty moving. It requires urgent medical attention.
Pain – Aching, sharp, or burning pain in the hip, groin, or thigh.
Swelling – Inflammation around the hip joint, making movement difficult.
Stiffness – Difficulty moving the hip or reduced range of motion.
Clicking or Locking – Sensation of the hip getting stuck during movement.
Weakness – Reduced strength in the leg and hip muscles.
Conservative Management – Rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), and bracing.
Physical Therapy – Strengthening and mobility exercises to restore hip function.
Medications – Anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers.
Injection Therapy –
Corticosteroid Injections – Reduce inflammation and pain.
Hyaluronic Acid Injections – Improve joint lubrication and reduce stiffness.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy – Uses growth factors to promote healing
Antibiotic Therapy (For Infections) – Intravenous or oral antibiotics to treat bacterial infections.
Surgical Options – Total hip replacement for severe cases.
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint stress.
Warm up and stretch before physical activity.
Use proper posture and body mechanics during movement.
Avoid repetitive hip strain and high-impact activities.
Seek prompt treatment for infections to prevent complications.
Hip infections require immediate medical attention to prevent joint damage. If you experience fever, redness, and severe hip pain, consult a doctor right away.
What is Avascular Necrosis?
Avascular Necrosis (AVN) of the hip, also known as osteonecrosis, is a condition where the blood supply to the femoral head (hip bone) is disrupted, leading to bone cell death and eventual collapse of the joint. This can cause severe hip pain, stiffness, and difficulty walking. If left untreated, AVN can progress to hip arthritis, requiring a total hip replacement.
Trauma or Hip Fracture – Injury disrupting blood flow to the femoral head.
Excessive Steroid Use – Long-term steroid therapy (e.g., for autoimmune diseases , Asthma) can weaken bones.
Alcohol Overuse – Chronic alcohol consumption affects blood circulation to the hip joint.
Medical Conditions – Sickle cell disease, lupus, and clotting disorders increase AVN risk.
Deep Sea Divers – Can damage blood vessels
Idiopathic (Unknown Cause) – In some cases, AVN occurs without a known cause.
Gradual onset of hip pain, worsening with weight-bearing activities
Stiffness and limited range of motion in the hip joint.
Pain in the groin, thigh, or buttocks that worsens over time.
Limping or difficulty walking as the condition progresses.
X-rays – To detect bone damage and joint collapse.
MRI Scan – The most accurate test to identify early-stage AVN.
The treatment depends on the stage of AVN and the severity of bone damage.
Early-Stage AVN (Joint Preservation Techniques)
Medications & Lifestyle Changes – Pain relievers, activity modifications, and avoiding weight-bearing activities
Core Decompression – A surgical procedure where small holes are drilled into the femoral head to reduce pressure, improve blood flow and slow disease progression
Stem Cell Therapy & Bone Grafts – Promote new bone growth and delay joint deterioration
Advanced AVN (Hip Replacement Surgery Required)
Total Hip Replacement (THR) – Recommended when the femoral head collapses, causing severe arthritis. The damaged hip joint is replaced with a prosthetic implant, restoring function and eliminating pain.
At Mahi Clinic, led by Dr. Vijay Kumar Sohanlal, Chennai’s top orthopedic specialist, we provide advanced and personalized treatment options for AVN of the hip. Whether through minimally invasive procedures or total hip replacement, we ensure the best outcomes for long-term joint health.
Book a consultation today to prevent further hip damage and regain mobility!
What is Hip Osteoarthritis?
Hip osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that results from the gradual breakdown of cartilage in the hip joint. As the protective cartilage wears away, bones begin to rub against each other, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. This condition commonly affects older adults but can also occur due to injury, genetics or excessive strain on the joint.
Several factors contribute to the development of hip osteoarthritis, including:
Aging – The natural wear and tear on the joint over time.
Joint Injury – Previous fractures, dislocations, trauma or AVN can accelerate cartilage breakdown.
Genetics – A family history of osteoarthritis increases the risk.
Obesity – Excess weight puts additional stress on the hip joint.
Symptoms of hip osteoarthritis develop gradually and worsen over time. Common symptoms include:
Hip pain – Usually felt in the groin, thigh, or buttock, worsening with movement
Stiffness – Difficulty moving the hip, especially after periods of rest.
Limited Range of Motion – Difficulty in activities such as walking, bending, or putting on shoes.
Grinding or Clicking Sensation – Caused by bone-on-bone friction.
Pain that Worsens with Activity – Especially after prolonged walking or standing.
Weakness or Muscle Atrophy – Due to reduced movement and use of the affected leg.
A healthcare provider will diagnose hip OA through:
Physical Examination – Checking for joint tenderness, range of motion, and pain levels.
X-rays – To detect cartilage loss, bone spurs, and joint space narrowing.
MRI or CT Scan – In cases where detailed imaging of soft tissues is needed.
Blood Tests – To rule out other conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis.
While hip OA cannot be cured, various treatment options help manage symptoms and improve mobility.
Medications – Pain relievers (acetaminophen, NSAIDs) and corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation.
Physical Therapy – Strengthening exercises to support the joint and improve flexibility.
Weight Management – Reducing body weight to relieve joint stress.
Lifestyle Modifications – Avoiding high-impact activities and using assistive devices like canes.
Hyaluronic Acid Injections – To lubricate the joint and ease movement.
Total Hip Replacement – Recommended for severe cases where pain and mobility issues are significant.
Managing hip osteoarthritis involves a combination of lifestyle changes, regular exercise, and medical interventions. Simple measures like stretching, using supportive footwear, and following a low-impact exercise routine can significantly improve quality of life.
Get expert care for hip osteoarthritis at Mahi Clinic with Dr. Vijay Kumar Sohanlal, Chennai’s leading orthopedic surgeon. Regain mobility and live pain-free with personalized treatment options.
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