What Causes Hip Arthritis?

Arthritis is a term used to describe conditions that affect the joints and soft tissues. Hip arthritis specifically refers to the deterioration of the cartilage that protects the hip joint, which causes pain, chronic inflammation, and eventual permanent damage to the joint.

In this article, we will talk about the causes of hip arthritis and the most common types of arthritis affecting the hip.

Hip Arthritis Causes

There are many possible causes of hip arthritis, but it’s often caused by a combination of factors.

  • Age-related wear and tear is one major cause, as the cartilage in your hip joints breaks down over time, causing friction in the joint, which leads to inflammation, pain, and stiffness.
  • Obesity or being overweight puts extra strain on the hips, which can contribute to wear and tear; this is why weight management is an important part of treating hip pain due to osteoarthritis.
  • Certain activities that put repetitive stress on your hips, such as running or engaging in sports, may increase your risk of developing hip osteoarthritis. Almost any sport, for that matter, subjects your hip joints to wear and tear and makes you vulnerable to hip injuries.
  • Genetics plays a role in the likelihood of developing hip arthritis, as bone health and hip alignment are all inherited. So, if hip arthritis is in your family, you are at increased risk for the condition.
  • A history of traumatic hip injury is also a risk factor for hip arthritis. The most common cause of post-traumatic hip arthritis is a fracture or dislocation of the hip joint, which can damage the cartilage and accelerate its breakdown.

The Different Types of Hip Arthritis

The two most common types of hip arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis remains the most common type of arthritis that affects the hip joint. It is a wear-and-tear disease, marked by the progressive wearing away of the cartilage over time. There is no cure for this type of arthritis, but the progression can be slowed down. Hip osteoarthritis causes pain, stiffness of the joint, and a decreased range of motion.

Rheumatoid arthritis is another type of hip arthritis that affects the joints. Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the body’s immune system attacks the joints. This can cause inflammation and damage to joint tissue. Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include pain, swelling, warmth in the affected joints, and stiffness. Rheumatoid arthritis can also lead to fatigue and feverishness due to its effects on the immune system.

Hip Arthritis Treatment in Baltimore, MD

Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland offers comprehensive hip arthritis treatment. Our board-certified orthopedic surgeons and occupational and physical therapists work with our patients to give them the best outcomes and much-needed relief from hip arthritis pain.

We have several locations in Central Maryland. Our orthopedic surgeons see patients in our Catonsville, Columbia, Eldersburg, and Fulton offices. Our physical therapists see patients in our Clarksville, Ellicott City, Jessup, and Westminster offices.

To get started on your hip arthritis treatment, schedule an appointment with our hip surgeons today. Call our office at (410) 644-1880 or use our convenient online request form.