Hip arthritis is when the cartilage that cushions the hip joint wears down, causing the bones to rub against each other. This leads to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced movement in the hip. It usually develops gradually over time, but can sometimes be triggered after injury or heavy joint loading.

An analogy…

Imagine your hip joint like a hinge with smooth padding. Over time, if that padding wears away, the metal parts grind together, causing damage and stiffness, that’s what happens in arthritis.

What are other names that hip arthritis can be called?

Hip Osteoarthritis, Osteoarthritis of the Hip, Arthritis of the Hip, Degeneration of the Hip

What causes hip arthritis?

The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint where the femoral head (ball) fits into the acetabulum (socket) of the pelvis. These surfaces are normally covered by smooth cartilage. In arthritis, the cartilage breaks down, the joint space narrows, and bone spurs (osteophytes) can form. This leads to painful friction, inflammation, and loss of normal joint movement.

What are the signs and symptoms of hip arthritis?

• Pain deep in the groin or hip, often worse after activity
• Stiffness, especially after sitting or waking up in the morning
• Reduced range of motion (difficulty bending, rotating, or putting on shoes)
• Aching or sharp pain that can radiate to the thigh or buttocks
• Grinding, clicking, or locking sensations in the hip
• Difficulty walking, standing, or climbing stairs

What tests are used to diagnose hip arthritis?

Palpation: Checking for tenderness around the hip joint

Range of motion tests: Assessing stiffness and pain during hip movement

FABER Test: Flexing, abducting, and externally rotating the hip to see if it reproduces groin pain

How long does hip arthritis take to heal?

Mild to moderate cases can improve in 6 to 12 weeks with proper management and exercise. Severe cases may need ongoing management for months or years.

How does hip arthritis happen?

• Aging 
• Previous hip injuries
• Repetitive strain from heavy lifting or high-impact sports
• Genetic predisposition
• Hip joint abnormalities

What treatment can help hip arthritis?

• Manual therapy (joint mobilisation, soft tissue release, massage)
• Exercise programs to strengthen the glutes, core, and hips
• Stretching tight muscles around the hip
• Activity modification
• Use of walking aids (cane or stick)

What exercises or stretches can I do for hip arthritis?

• Glute strengthening
• Hip flexor and hamstring stretches
• Gentle range of motion exercises
• Core strengthening
• Balance and stability drills to protect the hip
• Low-impact aerobic exercises

What products can help with hip arthritis?

• KT Pilates Band Pack
• KT Trigger Ball
• Wheatbag