Degenerative disease of the hip joint, which causes progressive damage to the cartilage and surrounding structures. It is most common in people over the age of 50 and in females.
The cause is multifactorial but includes genetic predisposition and factors such as age, hip dysplasia, obesity and microtrauma.
It manifests with pain in the groin that may travel down the inner thigh towards the knee. The pain typically increases with exercise, e.g. walking or climbing stairs. It may be associated with impaired mobility of the limb including stiffness.
Diagnosis is classically by directed questioning and physical examination. It may be completed with a hip X-ray.
Treatment is not curative, but is intended to palliate symptoms. Physical measures may be combined with medication, and in more severe cases surgery may be used.
It is recommended that you see a rheumatologist to confirm the diagnosis. Signs of complication include persistent pain that does not change with rest, nocturnal pain, morning stiffness for more than 1 hour, history of cancer or connective tissue disease.
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- David T. Felson. Osteoartritis. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna. Volumen 2. 19ª Edición. 2228:2233.
