Introduction
If you’re reading this because your hip has been hurting, whether it’s locking up or feeling stiff when you get out of bed in the morning, you’re not alone, and you’re in the right place.
At RAD Clinics, we often meet patients who’ve mostly lived with hip discomfort for months, sometimes even years. Many misconceptions are ageing, overuse, or a past injury. But here’s the truth: persistent hip pain is often caused by arthritis in the hip. The good news? It’s manageable, often without the need for surgery.
This guide will help you understand what hip arthritis is, how it affects your daily life, and most importantly, the non-surgical options that can help restore your comfort and mobility.
What is Hip Arthritis?
Your hip is a ball-and-socket joint, gently protected by a smooth layer of cartilage that helps it move comfortably. When that cartilage wears down over time, either due to injury, wear and tear, or inflammation, the bones begin to rub against each other. This causes pain, stiffness, and swelling. That’s what we call hip arthritis.
The most common type is osteoarthritis, a degenerative condition often related to ageing. But there are other forms too:
- Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack joint tissues.
- Post-traumatic arthritis results from a past injury, like a fracture or dislocation.
- Gout is a metabolic disorder that sometimes affects the hip, though less commonly.
What Causes Hip Arthritis?
Hip arthritis doesn’t happen overnight. It’s usually the result of one or more underlying factors, such as:
- Age-related wear and tear
- Previous injuries, such as fractures or joint dislocations
- Obesity, which places excess pressure on the hip joint
- Genetics, including a family history of arthritis
- Structural issues, like hip dysplasia or shallow hip sockets
In some cases, hip arthritis is mistaken for back pain, or even dismissed as sciatica (nerve pain) or muscle strain. That’s why proper diagnosis is so important.
Signs and Symptoms: What Does Hip Arthritis Feel Like?
Many people with arthritis in the hip describe it as a deep, aching pain in the groin area, radiating out to the thigh, buttock, or even down to the knee. The specific signs and symptoms of hip arthritis include:
- Morning stiffness that improves throughout the day
- Clicking, locking, or a grinding sensation in the joint
- Limited range of motion, making it harder to bend, walk, or climb stairs
- Fatigue, limping, or feeling “off balance”
Understanding the question, what does arthritis feel like in the hip? It can help you identify these signs early, ensuring a more effective treatment plan.
A recent study even found that adults with both hip arthritis and chronic low back pain are at a significantly higher risk of falls. This makes early diagnosis and treatment even more crucial.
Types of Arthritis in Hips
Different types of arthritis in the hips can contribute to pain and mobility issues. Osteoarthritis is the most common, but other types, such as rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, and gout, can also be the cause of hip discomfort. Understanding the type of arthritis is essential in determining the appropriate treatment options.
How Hip Arthritis Affects Daily Life?
If you’re living with arthritis in the hip, it’s more than just joint pain. It can interfere with nearly every aspect of your day. Simple movements like tying your shoes, getting in and out of the car, or walking your dog can become exhausting or even painful. Many people find themselves avoiding physical activity, which can lead to muscle weakness, weight gain, and even mood changes. This gradual decline in movement and confidence is what we aim to prevent at RAD Clinics, with solutions that put your comfort first.
How is Hip Arthritis Diagnosed?
Getting an accurate diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment.
Our specialists begin by reviewing your medical history and asking detailed questions about your symptoms. Then, we examine your joint movement and flexibility. Imaging techniques like musculoskeletal ultrasound help us check for cartilage loss, bone changes, or inflammation in and around the hip joint. Ultrasound is beneficial because it allows us to see the soft tissues in real-time, guiding us in both diagnosis and treatment.
Can You Treat Hip Arthritis Without Surgery?
Yes, absolutely. Many patients find lasting relief through non-surgical treatments, especially when they start early. Some of the most effective options include:
- Physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve joint stability
- NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) to reduce pain and inflammation
- Weight management can significantly reduce stress on your joints
- Hyaluronic acid injections, which add lubrication to the joint for smoother movement
- Cortisone injections, which help reduce inflammation quickly
Research shows that a combination of hyaluronic acid and corticosteroids can offer superior symptom relief and improved function in many patients.
Why Ultrasound-Guided Injections Work So Well
At RAD Clinics, we use ultrasound-guided injections to ensure medications are delivered with precision, right where they’re needed most.
Key Benefits:
- Targeted relief, reducing pain exactly at the source
- Faster recovery time
- Lower risk of complications
- Minimised discomfort during the procedure
This image-guided approach is beneficial for deeper joints like the hip, where accuracy matters.
Tips for Living with Hip Arthritis
While medical treatment is essential, small lifestyle adjustments can make a big difference day to day. Try these tips to protect your joints and stay active:
- Use supportive shoes to improve posture and alignment
- Avoid prolonged sitting, especially on low or soft surfaces
- Try swimming or water aerobics, which are gentle on joints
- Apply heat or cold packs to ease stiffness or swelling
- Stretch regularly, especially before and after activity
Every small step you take matters and helps you regain control over your movement.
When Should You See a Specialist?
If you’ve been wondering, where is hip arthritis pain felt? Or if your hip pain has lasted more than a few weeks, it’s worth having it checked, especially if:
- The pain has lasted more than a few weeks
- Your hip locks, clicks, or gives out
- Walking, standing, or sleeping is becoming harder
- Over-the-counter meds no longer help
Early care leads to better outcomes and more options.
Common Questions We Hear From Patients
Is it arthritis or bursitis?
Bursitis affects the outer part of the hip, while arthritis pain is often deeper, in the groin or front of the thigh.
Why does my hip lock up?
It could be from joint inflammation, damaged cartilage, or loose fragments inside the joint.
Will I eventually need a hip replacement?
Not always. Many patients manage well with conservative care for years, or avoid surgery altogether.
Is walking good or bad for arthritis?
Walking is usually helpful if done correctly and not during flare-ups. It keeps the joint mobile and strengthens support muscles.
Conclusion
Hip arthritis doesn’t have to control your life. With expert guidance and the right treatments, you can move more easily, sleep better, and get back to doing the things you love.
At RAD Clinics, we specialise in non-surgical solutions tailored to your unique needs with a focus on comfort, safety, and lasting relief.
Schedule your consultation today at our clinics in Milton Keynes, Northampton, or Aylesbury and take the first step towards a pain-free, active lifestyle.