Hip
Why does my hip joint hurt?
There are a variety of conditions that can lead to hip joint deterioration resulting in pain, reduced range of motion, and decreased quality of life. The human hip is a ball-and-socket, in which the ball of the femur (thigh bone) fits into the socket of the pelvic bone. Like other free-moving joints, the hip contains a small amount of synovial fluid, which lubricates the joint whenever you move. It is held together with ligaments – straps of tough tissue, which help prevent the joint from dislocating. Full function of the hip joint depends on the successful coordination of many interrelated parts including bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves. When the cartilage in the hip joint is damaged or wears down, the bones begin to rub together – resulting in friction, pain, and even bone deterioration. Worn cartilage is typically associated with arthritis, or osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis leading to total hip replacement.
An orthopedic surgeon may recommend Total Hip Replacement because of osteoarthritis or other forms of arthritis such as avascular necrosis, inflammatory arthritis and traumatic arthritis. A severe hip fracture or dislocation (often caused by a fall) may also require a Total Hip Replacement.