Hip Arthritis is a common problem affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the cartilage lining the hip joint wears down due to excessive wear and tear, inflammation or autoimmune disorder.

This leads to pain, discomfort and decreased mobility. Traditionally, hip arthritis was managed with painkillers, physiotherapy and joint replacement surgery. However, over the years, newer techniques and treatments have been developed to provide better relief to the patients.

This article explores the latest techniques and treatments for hip arthritis.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Non-Surgical treatments are usually the first line of therapy for Hip Arthritis. The following are the main non-surgical treatments:.

Physical therapy

Physical therapy is a crucial aspect of the management of Hip Arthritis, and it is usually recommended as part of the initial treatment plan.

Physical therapy consists of some stretching and exercise programs that improve flexibility, strength and range of motion. These programs can improve joint mechanics and reduce pressure on the hip joints, limiting damage to the cartilage.

Anti-inflammatory drugs

Anti-inflammatory drugs are useful in reducing inflammation and pain associated with hip arthritis. They can also slow down the progression of the disease and prevent the degeneration of the joint.

These medications include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), immunosuppressants, corticosteroid injections, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARD’s).

Weight Loss

Obesity is a significant risk factor for Hip Arthritis as it puts extra pressure on the hip joint. Weight loss can decrease stress on the joint and decrease inflammation, provide symptomatic relief and possibly slow the progression of the disease.

Surgical Treatments

Surgery is often required to manage advanced cases of Hip Arthritis that do not respond to non-surgical treatments. Here are the newest treatments available:.

Minimally invasive surgeries

Minimally invasive surgeries are a significant advance in the management of Hip Arthritis. The techniques involve a smaller incision, resulting in less pain, faster recovery and fewer complications. Three procedures that are gaining popularity include:.

Arthroscopic surgery

Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses an arthroscope to visualize the inside of the joint.

It is mainly used in the early stages of Hip Arthritis to remove damaged cartilage, repair damaged tissue and smooth out rough surfaces, restoring joint movement and decreasing pain.

Osteotomy

Osteotomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing or adding pieces of bone to correct any abnormalities in the shape of the joint.

Osteotomy is primarily used to treat early hip Arthritis and is mainly used in younger patients who are not ready for total joint replacement surgery.

Cartilage restoration procedures

Cartilage restoration procedures involve a series of techniques aimed at repairing or regenerating the cartilage lining the hip joint.

These procedures can help to reduce pain, improve joint function, and potentially prevent the need for a total joint replacement. They are more likely to be successful in small, well-localized areas of cartilage damage.

Partial Hip Replacement

Partial hip replacement (also known as a hip hemiarthroplasty) is a surgical technique that involves replacing only one part of the hip joint. It is mainly used to treat advanced Hip Arthritis that involves one part of the joint.

Partial Hip Replacement is believed to be more advantageous than total hip replacement surgery because it preserves a good part of the joint while providing relief from pain.

Total Hip Replacement

Total hip replacement surgery involves replacing the entire hip joint with a prosthetic device. The prosthetic hip joint is made of metal, ceramic, or plastic and restores the shape and function of the hip.

The surgery is now very common and has a high success rate. Newer implants and surgical techniques have made the surgery less invasive and more durable.

Conclusion

The treatment of Hip Arthritis has evolved vastly over the years with the introduction of new and innovative techniques that are less invasive and provide better pain relief and functional improvement.

Early diagnosis and management of Hip Arthritis is essential to successful treatment outcomes. A combination of non-surgical and surgical interventions tailored to the patient’s needs and preferences by an experienced and qualified healthcare professional is the current standard of care.