Osteoarthritis (OA) of the hip is a common condition. There is cartilage in your hip joint that helps to cushion your joint as you move. In the case of osteoarthritis, the cartilage begins to wear away. Bone rubs on bone, which can cause a variety of symptoms and in some cases joint deformity. If your OA is mild, you can make changes such as losing extra weight and exercising to help control your symptoms. Your doctor may also prescribe medication or suggest surgery if your symptoms are severe enough. If you think you have symptoms of hip osteoarthritis, see your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Pain and Stiffness
According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, the first sign that you may have OA in your hip is mild pain or discomfort and stiffness. In some cases the symptoms remain mild and never get worse. You may notice the pain and stiffness just in your hip, or in the groin, buttocks or thighs as well. The stiffness may be worse after periods of inactivity, such as the first thing in the morning. Your pain may be worse with activity but resolve when you rest. If your condition deteriorates, your pain may be constant and radiate to your knee.
Loss of Flexibility
As your hip joint becomes swollen or inflamed, says Brigham and Woman's Hospital, you may lose range of motion in your hip joint. You may find it more challenging to walk, climb stairs, get out of a chair or put on your shoes. Your posture may change as you try to take pressure off your hip.
Additional Symptoms
If there is excessive friction on the bones, you may develop bone spurs. In addition, the Arthritis Foundation says that pieces of bone and cartilage can break off and float loosely in your hip joint. Both of these situations can make movement painful. You may also feel your hip grating or catching when you move. If severe enough, the physical shape of your joint can change, causing deformity.
