Hip Joint Arthritis

Hip arthritis is traditionally thought to occur in older people. In reality, the very earliest signs of hip arthritis can develop in patient’s in their 20s.

Congenital hip dysplasia

This is frequently a manifestation of developmental variations such as Congenital hip dysplasia. The hip socket has not developed correctly. The ball of the hip (femoral head) is not correctly covered by the roof of the socket. Mechanical loading will put stress on the uncovered load-bearing rim area leading to premature arthritis.

Femoral Acetabular Impingement

A second variation is Femoral Acetabular Impingement. This may represent a variation of congenital hip dysplasia. As a consequence of developing a bump (Cam) on the upper femoral neck or a Pincer spur at the upper outer hip (acetabular) rim margin, the femoral head is unable to rotate correctly. This will create silent hip stiffness and the patient may present with symptoms of low back/hip and knee pain. It may well be associated with knee injury such as a torn meniscus or even cruciate ligament trauma caused by inability to pivot correctly through the limb.

Hip Arthritis can develop following localised trauma when there has been high impact such as following a road traffic accident.

Hip Arthritis can develop as part of an immune based disorder such as Rheumatoid arthritis or Psoriasis