Understanding Hip Arthritis

Hip arthritis is one of the most common causes of hip pain and reduced mobility in adults.  It can gradually affect everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, gardening, golfing and enjoying the outdoor lifestyle that many people in Melbourne, Albury-Wodonga, Bright and Myrtleford value.  As the condition progresses, patients often notice increasing stiffness, groin pain and limitations in their quality of life.

At Lidder Orthopaedics, we regularly assess and treat patients with hip arthritis from Melbourne, Albury-Wodonga, Bright, Myrtleford and surrounding regional communities, helping patients understand their treatment options and return to an active lifestyle.

At a glance

✔ What is hip arthritis?

✔ Who is affected by hip arthritis?

✔ When should you seek specialist advice?

✔ Treatment options

✔ Frequently asked questions

Hip arthritis occurs when the smooth cartilage lining the hip joint gradually wears away.  Cartilage normally allows the ball and socket of the hip joint to move smoothly.  As cartilage deteriorates, the bones begin to rub against each other, causing pain, inflammation, stiffness and loss of movement.

The most common form is osteoarthritis, often referred to as "wear and tear" arthritis.  Other forms include rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis and inflammatory arthritis.

Hip Arthritis Commonly Affects

• Adults over 50 years of age

• Patients with a family history of arthritis

• Individuals who have sustained previous hip injuries

• Active retirees

• Patients with developmental hip disorders

• People who are overweight or obese

• Former athletes and physically demanding workers

Common Symptoms Of Hip Arthritis

Patients may experience:

• Groin pain

• Pain in the buttock

• Pain radiating into the thigh

• Hip stiffness

• Difficulty putting on shoes and socks

• Reduced walking distance

• Pain when climbing stairs

• Difficulty getting in and out of a car

• Night pain

• Limping

Symptoms usually develop gradually over months or years.

You should consider seeing an orthopaedic surgeon if:

• Hip pain persists despite physiotherapy

• Walking distance becomes limited

• Sleep is regularly interrupted by pain

• Daily activities become difficult

• Anti-inflammatory medications are no longer effective

• Quality of life is declining

Early assessment allows treatment options to be discussed before severe disability develops.

Non-Operative Treatment

Many patients can initially manage symptoms without surgery.  

Options include:

• Activity modification

• Weight management

• Physiotherapy

• Strengthening exercises

• Walking aids

• Anti-inflammatory medications

• Pain relief medications

• Cortisone injections

• Lifestyle modifications

These treatments aim to reduce symptoms but do not reverse arthritis.

Operative Treatment

When symptoms become severe and non-operative treatment no longer provides adequate relief, hip replacement surgery may be considered.

Hip replacement surgery involves replacing the damaged joint surfaces with artificial implants to relieve pain and improve function.

Potential benefits include:

• Significant pain relief

• Improved mobility

• Better sleep

• Return to recreational activities

• Improved quality of life

Mr Surjit Lidder is a specialist orthopaedic surgeon consulting in Melbourne, Albury-Wodonga and Bright.  With strong family connections to Myrtleford and the Alpine region, he is committed to providing local access to specialist hip and knee care for regional communities.

Patients are assessed individually, with treatment tailored to their symptoms, lifestyle and goals.  Options range from non-operative management through to modern hip replacement surgery when appropriate.

Can hip arthritis be cured?

Hip arthritis cannot be reversed, but symptoms can often be effectively managed with both non-operative and surgical treatments.

Is walking good for hip arthritis?

Yes.  Regular low-impact exercise such as walking is often beneficial, although symptoms should guide activity levels.

Will arthritis show on an X-ray?

Yes.  X-rays commonly demonstrate cartilage loss, joint space narrowing and arthritic changes within the hip.

How do I know if I need a hip replacement?

Hip replacement may be considered when pain significantly affects sleep, mobility and quality of life despite appropriate non-operative treatment.

How long does a hip replacement last?

Modern hip replacements commonly last 15–20 years or longer, depending on patient factors and activity levels.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and should not replace personalised advice from your orthopaedic surgeon, GP or physiotherapist.  Recovery timelines vary between individuals, and return to sport should always be tailored to your specific circumstances.