Pain is one of the most prevalent symptoms of hip arthritis. It can strike at any time and be either acute or chronic. If you’ve been experiencing pain due to hip arthritis, it’s best to consult a doctor about what to do. Read on to find out about non-surgical methods to relieve pain from hip arthritis.
What Is Hip Arthritis?
Hip arthritis is a condition indicated by damaged cartilage in the hip joint. It is a chronic condition that will worsen over time if left unaddressed. If you have hip arthritis, you likely have one of two types:
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that’s typically the result of wear and tear. It occurs over time, and you’re more likely to contract it as you age.
Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder. If you have rheumatoid arthritis, your immune system begins to randomly attack cartilage in joints all over the body.
Why Avoid Surgical Intervention?
Surgery is an effective treatment option for hip arthritis. However, you may be unable to undergo surgery for various reasons. For example, some patients may have underlying conditions that prevent them from undergoing surgery or may not be healthy enough to recover from the operation safely. Some patients may also be unwilling to undergo surgery.
While arthritis does not technically have a cure, there are many ways to address, mitigate, and relieve the pain from hip arthritis. Surgery is not the only option available to you.
Rest
Refraining from doing heavy physical tasks for a while can help mitigate pain in your muscles and joints. However, it’s vital to know which activities cause frequent joint pain; these activities vary from patient to patient. Some patients experience pain after being idle for a long time, while others might experience pain from moving around too much.
Over-the-Counter Medication
While there are many kinds of medications specific for arthritis pain relief, it is best to consult your physician. Which medication works best for you depends on the type of arthritis you have. The kind of medication you should take will also depend on the stage and severity of your condition.
Some examples of medication for pain relief from hip arthritis include:
Analgesics
Analgesics are general pain relievers but will not reduce inflammation.
NSAIDs
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) relieve pain and reduce inflammation. The pain from hip arthritis is directly linked to inflammation, so reducing it can also decrease pain.
Corticosteroids
Like NSAIDs, corticosteroids also reduce inflammation. They are effective for immediate pain relief but may cause side effects. As with any medication, it’s best to consult your doctor before taking anything.
Dietary Supplements
Dietary supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin are generally helpful for patients with arthritis. Always consult with your healthcare provider about which kind of medication is suitable for your condition.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can improve strength, mobility, and range of motion. A critical element of physical therapy is that it helps your body stabilize and support your joints. Unlike medication, physical therapy helps prevent pain by improving your body instead of relieving symptoms after the fact.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture treatment is an alternative medicine method that uses thin needles to puncture your skin in different locations to alleviate pain. It is effective at relieving long-term chronic pain, including hip arthritis. During an acupuncture appointment, your therapist will examine your body for specific areas to target and tap needles into these areas. The number of treatments you will undergo will depend on your body’s reaction to the treatment and the severity of your condition.
Hip Arthritis Treatment in North Dakota
Living with hip arthritis is difficult at any age. Knowing more about your condition once you have been diagnosed is vital in creating a treatment plan. Your healthcare provider may provide you with a combination of the options above to mitigate symptoms and provide relief from pain caused by hip arthritis. That’s why choosing the right healthcare provider is a critical step in making life with arthritis easier.
Here at The Bone & Joint Center, we specialize in taking care of your every orthopedic need, including treatments for hip arthritis. As the largest private practice in the state, we have nine different locations ready to serve you and provide the quality healthcare you deserve.
You may reach us at (800) 424-2663 for more information on the services we provide. For your convenience, you may also use this secure online appointment form. With our assistance, you can manage hip arthritis and live free from pain.
