Hip Arthritis: Diagnosis, Treatment and Rehabilitation Approaches

What is Hip Arthritis?

Hip calcification (osteoarthritis) is a disorder that occurs as a result of the wear and tear of the cartilage in the hip joint over time. The loss of cartilage tissue can cause friction and pain in the joint, leading to limited movement.

Symptoms of Hip Arthritis

• Pain in the hip: It can be felt during movement or at rest.
• Stiffness and limited movement: It can occur in the morning or after sitting for a long time.
• Limping: Difficulty walking due to damage to the hip joint.
• Swelling and tenderness: It can occur as a result of inflammation in the hip joint.

Causes of Hip Arthritis

• Aging: Natural wear of cartilage tissue.
• Excessive weight: Increasing the load on the joint increases the risk.
• Genetic factors: Individuals with a family history of osteoarthritis are at higher risk.
• Traumas: Joint injuries or fractures.
• Rheumatic diseases: Joint damage due to chronic inflammation.

Hip Arthritis Diagnosis

• Physical examination: The doctor evaluates the range of motion of the joint.
• X-ray: Joint narrowing and bone spurs are detected.
• MRI and CT scans: Used to determine cartilage and soft tissue damage.
• Blood tests: May be done to exclude rheumatic diseases.

Hip Arthritis Treatment Methods

• Lifestyle changes: Weight control and regular exercise.
• Painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs: Used to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Physical therapy: Supports the joint by increasing muscle strength.
• Intra-articular injections: Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections.
• Surgical intervention: In advanced cases, hip replacement surgery may be applied.

Hip Arthritis Rehabilitation

• Physiotherapy: Special exercises that increase joint range of motion.
• Muscle strengthening: Strengthening the muscles around the hip programs.
• Pain management: Cold and heat applications, manual therapy techniques.
• Walking training: Balance and walking exercises to support daily activities.

Physical Activity and Hip Arthritis

Low-impact exercises are beneficial for patients with hip arthritis. Activities such as swimming, walking and pilates support joint health, while heavy lifting or high-impact sports can increase joint damage.

Prevention and Protective Approaches

• Healthy weight control: Reduces the load on the hip joint.
• Balanced diet: Consuming foods rich in calcium and vitamin D supports bone health.
• Correct posture techniques: Ergonomic sitting and movement habits should be developed to avoid excessive load on the hip.
• Regular doctor check-ups: Early diagnosis is important for individuals at risk.

Conclusion

Hip calcification can be controlled with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Lifestyle changes, physical activity and medical treatment approaches can improve the quality of life of patients. The progression of the disease can be slowed down by following the doctor's recommendations.