The average human lifespan is increasing, as is the prevalence of age-related diseases. It is essential to take precautions against arthritis (calcification) that can develop as people get older. Because the hip joint is one of the main weight-bearing joints in the body, it is at higher risk of wear and damage. According to Prof. Dr. Ramazan Erden Erturer, Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist at Liv Hospital, hip joint arthritis is more common in women over the age of 40. He explained the conditions that require hip prosthesis and described the robotic techniques now used in hip replacement surgeries.
How does hip calcification (osteoarthritis) start?
Hip osteoarthritis, also known as coxarthrosis or commonly referred to as hip joint calcification, is the most common cause of hip pain in middle-aged and older individuals. Arthritis refers to inflammation of the joints. Various disorders can cause inflammation and structural changes in the joints, leading to arthritis by permanently damaging the joint surfaces. Under normal conditions, joint cartilage is smooth and slippery. Arthritis leads to thinning, roughness, and cracks in the cartilage, which may extend into the underlying bone. As the cartilage deteriorates further, the bone surfaces begin to rub against each other, increasing friction and reducing joint smoothness, which results in pain.
What are the symptoms of hip osteoarthritis?
The most common complaint among arthritis patients is pain. Initially, this pain worsens with activity or bearing weight and usually improves with rest. Pain originating in the hip can also radiate to the thigh (femur) and groin. As the disease advances, it limits joint movement and makes walking more difficult. Eventually, the pain may persist even during rest.
Aside from calcification, what conditions cause hip pain?
The most frequent types of hip pain are caused by soft tissues like muscle and ligaments in this area. Standing for long periods of time, exercises and movements that are not routine can cause muscle pain. Directly bone-related cancers can be seen in the hip region, as well as cancers with different origins can spread to hip bones and cause pain. Nerves in the hip area originate from the back region. Therefore, conditions like disc herniated and slipped disc can manifest with pain that extends.
* Liv Hospital Editorial Board has contributed to the publication of this content .
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