Signs You Might Have Hip Arthritis

This article is part of the the Ultimate Guide to Hip Pain Relief.

There are a variety of reasons why you may feel pain in your hips. It is important to assess the type of pain you are having and explaining in detail what the pain is like to your doctor. Pain and stiffness may be a sign that you have hip arthritis.

IBJI recently chatted with Dr. Justin M. LaReau, board certified orthopedic surgeon with fellowship training in total joint replacement and young adult hip preservation. Dr. LaReau discusses the key signs of hip arthritis. His responses—below—have been edited and condensed for space.

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Signs of Hip Arthritis

There are a few key points to look for in determining if you have hip arthritis. Dr. LaReau says, “Hip arthritis can present in a variety of ways and differ with each patient. Commonly patients experience pain in the groin and thigh. While others experience pain in different ways and may initially seek consultation for back pain, sacroiliac (SI) joint pain, and even sciatica.”

Common Hip Arthritis Signs:

• Pain in the groin and thigh
• Pain at the end of a long active day
• Stiffness
• Experiences of discomfort
  • Example: Putting on shoes and socks, climbing stairs, getting into and out of a car, walking or sitting for a prolonged period of time.

“Many patients express concern that they have ‘bursitis’ of the hip, specifically, pain and discomfort on the outside of the hip, and a tenderness to the touch when pressure is applied to this area, or when laying upon the affected side.”

If you have a consultation with an orthopedist, it is important to discuss your pain in depth so the correct diagnosis can be made. You may go in thinking it’s back pain or bursitis and find out the true cause is hip arthritis.

Learn the signs of hip arthritis to know when to seek treatment. “Image by: aleks333/Shutterstock.com“

Arthritis Pain

Dr. LaReau wants patients to be aware that the pain can come and go. “Discomfort may feel quite significant on one particular day followed by a day of relative relief. Fluctuating levels of discomfort are actually quite common in hip arthritis.”

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you may want to consider seeing an orthopedic surgeon. Dr. LaReau says, “Even if your discomfort is mild, if can be helpful to undergo consultation to help you maintain a high level of activity.”

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Hip Care and Treatment at IBJI

Whether you are just starting out in your hip care journey or need a second opinion for your hip pain, IBJI’s hip surgeons are here to help provide you with the necessary care for your ailment. Get the relief you are seeking with the help of IBJI.

Request an appointment with an IBJI hip surgeon to discuss treatment options and create an individualized approach to your care.

Check out IBJI’s additional online resources for hip care to learn more about conditions and read patient testimonials.

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