In the United States, 7% of adults experience hip pain at any given time according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. One of the most common reasons for hip pain is arthritis, specifically osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis, or OA, is sometimes referred to a degenerative joint disease and frequently occurs in the hands, knees, and hips. Although there’s no cure for osteoarthritis, there are various activities you can do in order to help alleviate your pain.
- Physical Activity
It may seem like a bad idea to perform physical activity when you’re suffering from arthritis pain, especially in the hips. However, physical activity and exercise can actually relieve arthritis pain and reduce joint damage as a result.
Two of the best exercises you can do for your arthritis are water aerobics and walking. Both activities are great ways to stay fit without putting high amounts of pressure on your joints. - Lose Weight and Diet
One of the by-products of physical activity is weight loss, which can reduce pressure placed on your joints and hips. Obesity in particular can increase stress on your knees, back, and hips. Changing your diet to an anti-inflammatory diet is also beneficial. Fruits and vegetables, beans, whole grains, fish, nuts, and olive oil are great for joint health and help you lose weight. - Stretching
Stretching can improve your flexibility and help to keep your joints from sticking painfully. Yoga and Pilates are also a great way to stretch while getting exercise in. - Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help improve your range of motion, flexibility, and can help reduce hip pain caused by your arthritis. You may also be given back or hip braces in order to reduce pressure on your joints and spine, which may otherwise increase pain. - Surgery
While surgery won’t ultimately treat your arthritis, it can sometimes allow you a sense of temporary relief of pain. Consult your doctor or physical therapist to see if surgery may be right for you.
Hip pain due to osteoarthritis can be inconvenient to your lifestyle. It inhibits your mobility and therefore can cause you to feel isolated and unhappy. However, by taking pain relievers, staying active, dieting, and seeking physical therapy your arthritis doesn’t have to hold you back. Consult your doctor or physical therapist for your best treatment options today!