Understanding the Hip Joint – A Guide by Dr. Anupam Khandelwal

The hip joint is one of the largest and strongest joints in the human body. It plays a critical role in our ability to walk, sit, stand, and perform daily activities. Yet, when it becomes damaged due to injury, arthritis, or wear and tear, it can severely impact your quality of life.

I ( Dr. Anupam Khandelwal) have treated numerous patients with hip problems ranging from minor pain to severe arthritis requiring hip replacement. This page is designed to help you understand the hip joint in simple terms and guide you on what to do if you’re experiencing hip pain.

What Is the Hip Joint?

The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint. The “ball” is the top of your thigh bone (femur), and it fits into the “socket” in your pelvis called the acetabulum. This joint allows for a wide range of motion in multiple directions, making it one of the most mobile joints in the body.

To ensure smooth movement, the bones in the hip joint are covered with articular cartilage, a smooth and slippery tissue that prevents friction. The joint is surrounded by muscles, tendons, and ligaments that support movement and provide stability.

Topics of Interest related to HIP JOINT diseases & Treatment

HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY
Ceramic Hip Replacement Surgery
Dual Mobility Hip replacement Surgery
Hip Joint Rejuvenation & Repair
HIP AVN
Fractures around HIP joint
Hip Impingement Syndrome

Common Causes of Hip Pain

Hip pain can result from a variety of causes, and not all of them require surgery. Some of the most common causes include:

1. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most frequent cause of chronic hip pain in adults, especially above the age of 50. It is a degenerative condition where the cartilage wears away over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility [1].

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis

This is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation of the joint lining and leads to cartilage damage.

3. Hip Fractures

A fall or accident can cause a break in the upper part of the thigh bone. Hip fractures are particularly common in elderly individuals with weak bones (osteoporosis).

4. Avascular Necrosis

This occurs when the blood supply to the femoral head is reduced, leading to bone death. It can result from trauma, steroid use, or alcohol abuse [2].

5. Bursitis or Tendinitis

Inflammation of the soft tissues around the hip can cause localized pain and tenderness.

6. Developmental Dysplasia

In some people, the hip joint does not form properly in childhood, leading to problems later in life.

Symptoms That Should Not Be Ignored

If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s advisable to consult an orthopedic specialist:

Persistent hip or groin pain
Difficulty in walking or standing for long periods
Stiffness, especially in the morning
Clicking or grinding sound during movement
Limited range of motion
Limping or imbalance

Diagnosis of Hip Joint Problems

At my clinic in Indore, we follow a detailed process to accurately diagnose hip issues:

Physical Examination – To assess your pain, movement, and strength.
X-rays – To evaluate bone alignment and detect arthritis or fractures.
MRI or CT Scans – For detailed imaging of soft tissues and early-stage avascular necrosis.
Blood Tests – In case infection or autoimmune disorders are suspected.

Treatment Options

The treatment for hip joint problems depends on the cause, severity, and the patient’s age and activity level.

1. Conservative Treatment

In many cases, surgery is not immediately needed. We begin with:

Medications – Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs
Physiotherapy – To strengthen muscles and improve flexibility
Lifestyle Modifications – Weight management, posture correction, and activity changes
Injections – Corticosteroid injections can offer temporary relief

2. Surgical Treatment

When conservative measures fail, surgical options are considered:

A. Hip Arthroscopy

A minimally invasive procedure to treat early joint problems like labral tears or cartilage damage.

B. Hip Replacement (Total Hip Arthroplasty)

This is recommended for severe arthritis or avascular necrosis. In this procedure, the damaged ball and socket are replaced with artificial components made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. Hip replacements have shown excellent results in restoring mobility and relieving pain [3].

C. Nail / Plate fixation of Hip Fractures

When Should You Consider Hip Replacement?

You may be a candidate for hip replacement if:

Pain interferes with daily activities like walking or climbing stairs
Conservative treatments no longer provide relief
Your sleep is disturbed due to hip discomfort
X-rays show significant joint damage

Life After Hip Replacement

Most patients report dramatic improvement after surgery. With proper rehabilitation, you can expect to return to a pain-free and active lifestyle. Some precautions and physiotherapy will be necessary in the early recovery period, but the long-term results are highly rewarding.

As per global data, over 90% of hip replacements last more than 15–20 years with proper care [4].

Why Choose Dr. Anupam Khandelwal for Hip Treatment in Indore?

Extensive experience in joint replacement surgeries
Personalized treatment plans
Dedicated team for pre- and post-operative care
Use of advanced surgical techniques for faster recovery

Book a Consultation

If you’re experiencing hip pain or stiffness, don’t delay. Early diagnosis can prevent further damage and improve outcomes. Contact us through www.dranupamkhandelwal.com or visit our clinic in Indore to schedule your appointment.