Hip Osteoarthritis Treatment in NYC

What Is Hip Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis (OA), also known as age-related arthritis or degenerative joint disease, is a deteriorating disease that affects the joints in your body. It can occur in any of your body’s joints, including the knees, shoulders, and hips. Hip osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that surrounds the bones in the hip joint is worn down. As a result, the bones in the joint begin rubbing together, causing inflammation and pain. Commonly seen in older patients, this disease tends to develop as you age and worsens over time. Hip osteoarthritis can cause hip pain that may range from dull, achy, sharp, or even debilitating, depending on the location and severity of the condition.

Causes Of Osteoarthritis In The Hip

Osteoarthritis is caused by the gradual wearing down of cartilage in the hip joint. There are a number of different factors that may contribute to the development of this condition, including:

• Normal aging
• Hip injuries
• Improperly formed or underdeveloped joints
• Hereditary cartilage defects
• Extreme stress on joints over time
• Carrying extra weight

Symptoms Of Hip Osteoarthritis

Any of the following symptoms of hip osteoarthritis may warrant a consultation with Dr. Peter K. Sculco, board-certified orthopedic surgeon and hip specialist:

• Joint stiffness after prolonged sitting
• Joint stiffness when getting up in the morning
• Limited range of motion or inability to move hip
• Pain, tenderness, or swelling in the hip area
• Hearing “crunching” sounds in the hip joint
• Feeling of bones rubbing together

Diagnosing Hip Osteoarthritis

Methods that are commonly used to help identify hip osteoarthritis include:

Physical Examination for Hip Osteoarthritis Diagnosis

Diagnosis begins with your doctor conducting a thorough physical exam, which includes examining the range of motion and function of the hip. In addition, your doctor will analyze your personal and family medical history to help make an accurate diagnosis.

X-Rays for Hip Osteoarthritis Diagnosis

X-rays are often taken in order to identify certain abnormal characteristics of the joints, such as narrowing of the cartilage.

Hip Osteoarthritis Treatment Options

There are a number of treatment options for hip osteoarthritis, depending on your needs and the severity of the condition. Conservative treatments for hip arthritis commonly include:

• Rest
• Use of a cane
• Exercise (low impact) or physical therapy
• Weight loss
• Medication prescribed by a doctor

If conservative treatments fail to improve the function and discomfort in your hip, you may be a candidate for a surgical treatment. Dr. Peter K. Sculco is dedicated to providing patients with advanced osteoarthritis pain treatment options using the highest quality implants and advanced surgical techniques.

Dr. Sculco specializes in the following hip osteoarthritis surgery treatment options:

• Total hip replacement (performed using posterior approach)
• Revision hip replacement

Schedule A Consultation

If you’re suffering from hip pain caused by hip osteoarthritis, the first step to restoring your mobility and quality of life is scheduling an evaluation with an experienced orthopedic hip specialist. Dr. Peter K. Sculco provides personalized care paired with world-class orthopedic training. Call 212.606.1771 today to request an appointment.