The hip is a ball-and-socket joint where the thighbone meets the pelvis. As the largest weight-bearing joint in the body, it supports a wide range of movement during walking, bending, and other daily activities. Arthritis can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility when cartilage or other joint structures become damaged.
Dr. Brian Cohen is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with more than 20 years of experience, over 30,000 orthopedic surgical procedures performed, and more than 100,000 patient evaluations. He provides personalized care for patients with different forms and stages of hip arthritis, beginning with an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan tailored to symptoms, joint damage, and activity goals.
Hip Arthritis Types
Arthritis refers to inflammation and structural damage within one or more joints. It can cause pain, stiffness, and increasing difficulty with everyday activities.
Common types of hip arthritis include:
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Osteoarthritis: The most common form of arthritis. It develops as cartilage within the joint gradually breaks down, causing pain, stiffness, and changes to the surrounding bone. Symptoms often worsen over time.
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Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Arthritis that develops after an injury damages the cartilage or other structures within the hip joint.
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Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in the lining of the joint. Over time, this inflammation may damage the cartilage and bone.
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Ankylosing Spondylitis: A chronic inflammatory condition that primarily affects the spine but may also cause pain and stiffness in the hips.
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Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: An autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation and tissue damage throughout the body, including within the hip joints.
Hip Arthritis Symptoms
Hip arthritis symptoms often develop gradually and may become more noticeable as joint damage progresses.
Common symptoms include:
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Pain in the hip, groin, thigh, or buttock
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Joint stiffness, especially after rest
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Limited range of motion
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Tenderness around the hip
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Muscle weakness
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Difficulty walking or climbing stairs
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Pain after prolonged sitting or standing
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A grinding, catching, or clicking sensation
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A limp or a change in walking pattern
Hip Arthritis Diagnosis
Diagnosis begins with a review of the patient’s symptoms, medical history, previous injuries, and the activities that increase pain. Dr. Cohen or one of his orthopedic colleagues will then perform a focused examination of the hip.
The examination may include:
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Checking for areas of tenderness
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Evaluating the range of motion
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Assessing hip and leg strength
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Observing walking and movement
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Identifying stiffness or pain with specific movements
X-rays may be ordered to evaluate joint-space narrowing, cartilage loss, bone spurs, or other changes associated with arthritis. Blood tests may also be recommended when rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or another inflammatory condition is suspected.
Hip Arthritis Treatment Options
Treatment for hip arthritis focuses on reducing pain, maintaining mobility, and helping patients remain active. The recommended approach depends on the type of arthritis, the amount of joint damage, the severity of symptoms, and the patient’s overall health and activity goals.
Nonsurgical treatment is usually recommended first. Surgery may be considered when pain and limited function continue despite appropriate treatment.
Nonsurgical Treatment
Several nonsurgical treatments may help manage hip arthritis symptoms and improve daily function.
Options may include:
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Medication to reduce pain and inflammation
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Corticosteroid injections to provide temporary relief
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Physical therapy to improve strength, flexibility, and joint movement
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Low-impact exercise
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Activity modification to reduce stress on the hip
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Weight management when appropriate
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A cane or other assistive device to improve mobility
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Adaptive tools, such as a long-handled reacher, can reduce painful bending
Dr. Cohen may recommend a combination of treatments based on the type and severity of arthritis.
Surgical Treatment
If nonsurgical treatment no longer provides sufficient relief, Dr. Cohen may recommend surgery. The appropriate procedure depends on the patient’s age, overall health, type of arthritis, degree of joint damage, and the condition’s effect on daily life.
In some cases, total hip replacement may be recommended. During the procedure, damaged bone and cartilage are removed and replaced with prosthetic components that create a new joint surface.
Dr. Cohen uses MAKO robotic-arm-assisted technology for qualifying hip replacement procedures. The system helps him create a personalized surgical plan and provides guidance during bone preparation and implant positioning. Dr. Cohen remains in control of the procedure throughout surgery.
Why Choose Dr. Cohen?
OVER 25+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
One of the first orthopedic surgeons employed by a large hospital. Dr. Cohen spent 20 years.
TRUSTED BY OVER 100,000+ PATIENTS WORLDWIDE
Over his distinguished career, Dr. Cohen has cultivated a reputation of excellence and trust among his patients and his peers.
UTILIZING THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY
To achieve the best surgical outcomes, Dr. Cohen uses the most advanced technologies and techniques, keeping his practice state-of-the-art.
PATIENT SAFETY IS TOP PRIORITY
An individualized, patient-focused process coupled with decades of training and experience helps ensure maximum safety for all of Dr. Cohen’s patients.
Hip Arthritis Care in Chillicothe, OH
Hip arthritis treatment may include medication, physical therapy, injections, activity modifications, or total hip replacement, depending on the severity of the condition. Dr. Cohen evaluates joint damage, symptoms, and mobility goals before recommending care. Each treatment plan is designed to reduce pain and help preserve or restore function. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Brian Cohen, call (614) 788-0375.
