Degenerative Joint Disease of the Hip
Definition
The joint surface cartilage of the hip joint becomes worn away. The roughed joint surface that is left causes pain and stiffness. This is most often referred to as arthritis.
Mechanism of Injury
Hereditary, injury, fractures of or around the joint surface, and metabolic disorders are all involved with the development of degenerative joint disease. If cartilage in a joint is injured, it cannot regenerate, and the new forces that are created are abnormal, leading to further stresses, and the cycle may propagate.
Symptoms
Typical symptoms of hip degenerative joint disease include pain in the groin, thigh, or buttock; the pain is generally worse with standing, walking, or twisting.
Physical Therapy Intervention
Treatment depends upon multiple factors including age, activities, medical conditions, and overall joint health. A program of strengthening the muscles, tendons, and ligaments around the joint will provide relief and slow further breakdown of joint.