Hip Osteoarthritis in Mona Vale
Hip osteoarthritis is a common condition that can cause pain, stiffness and reduced movement around the hip and groin. Symptoms may gradually begin to affect walking, exercise, getting in and out of the car and everyday activities.
At Helix Recovery, treatment focuses on reducing pain, maintaining movement and building the strength and capacity of the hip to help you stay active.
What is Hip Osteoarthritis?
Hip osteoarthritis involves changes to the cartilage, bone and other structures within the hip joint.
These changes become increasingly common with age but don't always cause pain. The severity of arthritis seen on an X-ray also doesn't necessarily correspond with the severity of someone's symptoms.
When osteoarthritis does become symptomatic, a combination of appropriate exercise, maintaining activity and symptom management can help improve function and quality of life.
Common Symptoms
Pain in the groin or front of the hip
Pain that may extend into the thigh or buttock
Hip stiffness, particularly after periods of rest
Reduced hip movement
Difficulty putting on shoes or socks
Pain with prolonged walking or standing
Difficulty getting in or out of a car
Reduced tolerance for exercise and everyday activities
How We Assess Hip Osteoarthritis
Hip pain can arise from the joint itself as well as surrounding muscles, tendons and the lower back.
Your assessment may include hip movement, strength and functional testing alongside examination of the lower back and surrounding structures where relevant.
Imaging such as an X-ray may be useful when osteoarthritis is suspected, but findings are always considered alongside your symptoms and physical examination.
How We Treat Hip Osteoarthritis
Treatment depends on how long symptoms have been present, their severity and the activities you want to return to.
Treatment may include:
Osteopathic manual therapy
Shockwave therapy
Progressive exercise rehabilitation
Hip and gluteal strengthening
Mobility exercises
Activity and load management
Strategies to maintain walking, exercise and general activity
Gradual progression toward your individual goals
Shockwave Therapy for Hip Osteoarthritis
Shockwave therapy does not reverse the structural changes associated with hip osteoarthritis. However, it may be incorporated into treatment where appropriate to help manage pain and address sensitive muscles, tendons and other soft tissues surrounding the hip.
It can be used alongside osteopathic manual therapy and exercise rehabilitation to improve comfort and help you remain active while building strength and function.
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Not necessarily. Structural changes may progress over time, but symptoms don't always follow the same pattern. Many people can maintain good function and remain active despite osteoarthritis.
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Yes. Exercise is an important part of managing hip osteoarthritis. Strengthening and regular physical activity can improve function and help maintain your ability to perform everyday activities.
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Not always. Hip osteoarthritis can often be suspected from your history and examination. Imaging may be recommended when the diagnosis is unclear, symptoms are significant or further medical management is being considered.
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Not everyone with hip osteoarthritis requires surgery. Hip replacement may be considered when symptoms become severe and substantially affect quality of life despite appropriate conservative management.
Common Questions
Ready to Move More Comfortably?
Hip osteoarthritis doesn't necessarily mean giving up the activities you enjoy. We'll assess your hip and develop a treatment and rehabilitation plan focused on maintaining movement, strength and function.