Hip Arthritis
A gradual breakdown of the cartilage in the hip joint that leads to pain, stiffness, and difficulty with walking and everyday movement.
About this condition
Hip arthritis develops when the smooth cartilage lining the ball-and-socket joint wears away over time. As the cushion thins, bone grinds against bone, causing pain in the groin, thigh, or buttock, along with stiffness. It commonly makes walking, climbing stairs, and getting up from a chair harder.
Dr. Sonntag pursues conservative care first, including activity changes, weight management, physical therapy, and injections to manage pain and keep patients moving. When arthritis advances to the point that it limits daily life and other treatments no longer help, he discusses whether a hip replacement is appropriate.
Common symptoms
- Pain in the groin, thigh, or buttock
- Stiffness, especially in the morning
- Reduced range of motion
- A grinding or catching sensation
- Difficulty walking or climbing stairs
- Pain that worsens with activity
Common causes
- Age-related cartilage wear (osteoarthritis)
- Previous hip injury or fracture
- Inflammatory or rheumatoid arthritis
- Hip structure abnormalities from birth
- Genetics and family history
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Learn moreCare with Dr. Jeffrey R. Sonntag
Dr. Jeffrey R. Sonntag, DO is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with fellowship training in shoulder and elbow surgery, practicing at OSMC in Granger, IN, Elkhart, IN, Middlebury, IN.
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