Arthritis of the hip is a common condition that affects thousands of people worldwide, including many here in Jamaica. This joint disease causes pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, often interfering with daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or even resting comfortably. At The Bone & Joint Centre in Kingston, Jamaica, we provide specialized care to help patients manage arthritis and regain quality of life.
What Is Arthritis of the Hip?
This issue occurs when the cartilage cushioning the hip joint wears away, causing the bones to rub together. Over time, this friction leads to pain, swelling, and stiffness. The most common types of hip arthritis include:
- Osteoarthritis – age-related wear and tear of the joint
- Rheumatoid arthritis – an autoimmune condition where the germ fighters in your own body, attacks your joints causing inflammation and joint damage
- Post-traumatic arthritis – resulting from previous injury to the hip such as with a fracture in or around the hip joint
Because the hip is one of the body’s largest weight-bearing joints, arthritis can greatly affect mobility if not treated. See John Hopkins Medical for more information on hip arthritis.
Symptoms
Recognizing the early signs of this disease can lead to faster diagnosis and better outcomes. Symptoms often include:
- Pain in the hip, groin, thigh, or buttocks. Uncommonly it can present as knee pain.
- Stiffness to the joint, especially in the morning or after sitting
- Decreased range of motion (this is stiffness)
- A grinding or clicking sensation in the joint
- Difficulty walking, bending, or climbing stairs
If you notice these symptoms, it is important to consult an orthopaedic doctor for proper evaluation. important to consult an orthopaedic doctor for proper evaluation.
Diagnosing The disease
At The Bone & Joint Centre, our orthopaedic specialists use a combination of physical exams, medical history, and imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans to diagnose hip arthritis. Early diagnosis allows for better management and can delay progression of the disease.
Treatment Options
There is no single treatment for this particular condition; instead, we tailor care plans to each patient’s needs. Options may include:
- Lifestyle changes – weight management, low-impact exercises, and physiotherapy
- Medications – anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers
- Injections – corticosteroid, hyaluronic acid (Synthetic joint fluid) or Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections for pain relief
- Surgical options – in severe cases, hip replacement surgery may be recommended
Our team works closely with patients to determine the best treatment plan for long-term relief and improved mobility.
Living With Arthritis of the Hip
Although arthritis is a chronic condition, many patients live active, fulfilling lives with the right management. Staying active, eating a balanced diet, and following your doctor’s advice are key to reducing symptoms and protecting your joints.
At The Bone & Joint Centre, we provide comprehensive care, from diagnosis to Joint Replacement Surgery, ensuring every patient receives the support they need.
When to See an Orthopaedic Doctor in Kingston
If hip pain is interfering with your daily activities, it may be time to see an orthopaedic specialist. Early intervention can prevent further damage and help you maintain mobility. To learn more about arthritis and joint care, visit Arthritis Foundation or schedule a consultation with our team at The Bone & Joint Centre in Kingston Jamaica.