Managing Hip Arthritis

Hip arthritis can significantly affect your daily activities and quality of life. From simple tasks like walking to more strenuous activities, hip pain and stiffness can be a constant challenge. Understanding the available treatment options can help you manage symptoms and maintain an active lifestyle. 

Understanding Hip Arthritis

Hip arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and pain in the hip joint, often due to the wear and tear of cartilage. It is most commonly seen in older adults, but it can also affect younger people, especially those with a family history or who have experienced hip injuries. The most common types are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis.

Conservative Management

For many, treatment begins with conservative measures. These include:

• Physical Therapy

Exercises to strengthen the muscles around the hip can improve joint stability and reduce pain. We have in-house exercise physiologists at Surecell, as well as two gyms (Sure Movement and Malvern Martial Arts) that offer classes to different age groups, fostering community.            Check our exercise physiologist here 

• Medications

Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs can help manage mild to moderate pain. In some cases, doctors may prescribe stronger medications or  injections to reduce inflammation.

• Lifestyle Modifications

 Weight loss can significantly decrease the pressure on your hip joints, while low-impact activities such as swimming or cycling can keep you active without worsening the pain.

• Assistive Devices

Canes or walkers can take some of the stress off the hip joint, improving mobility and reducing discomfort.

When Conservative Methods Aren't Enough

If conservative treatments don't provide relief, regenerative medicine treatments and surgical options might be considered:

• PRP Treatments

Emerging treatments are also gaining attention for their potential to manage hip arthritis symptoms. One such option involves platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections. PRP treatment uses a concentration of a patient’s own platelets to accelerate the healing of injured tissues. Numerous studies have already demonstrated the efficacy of PRP in reducing pain and improving joint function, with many patients reporting significant relief after undergoing PRP therapy. 

Surecell, the first and leading PRP clinic in Australia, has been at the forefront of providing this innovative treatment, helping countless patients manage their arthritis symptoms effectively.

• Hip Resurfacing

This procedure involves trimming and capping the head of the femur with a smooth metal covering. It's less invasive than a total hip replacement and can be a good option for younger, more active patients.  

• Total Hip Replacement

In this surgery, the damaged bone and cartilage are removed and replaced with prosthetic components. It's highly effective for relieving pain and restoring function in severe cases of hip arthritis.

Choosing the Right Treatment for You

Deciding on the best treatment plan for hip arthritis depends on various factors, including the severity of your condition, your overall health, and your personal preferences. Consulting with a doctor  will help you understand which options are most suitable for your situation.

Remember, managing hip arthritis is about finding the right balance of treatments to reduce pain and improve your quality of life. Whether through physical therapy, medications, surgical interventions, or PRP, there is a path forward.

Stay active, stay informed, and don't hesitate to seek professional advice to find the best treatment plan for your hip arthritis.