Hip Pain and Arthritis
The hip is a "ball and socket" joint formed by the pelvic bones
(the socket) and the end of the femur bone (the ball). Both bones are covered
with a smooth layer of protective cartilage; loss of this cartilage from wear
and tear, inflammation, or injury is called arthritis.
The hip joint and the large muscles that cover it are lubricated by five large "bursa
sacks" and the fluid contained in the hip joint. Each sack produces lubricating
fluid and functions to reduce pressure and friction around the joint. These bursa
sacks can become irritated from injury, excessive pressure, and overuse. Inflammation
of a bursa is called bursitis.
The major nerves controlling lower leg function cross the hip. Irritation of
these nerves can cause pain through the hip and/or down the leg. Injury to the
sciatic nerve frequently causes pain along the outer thigh or down the back of
the leg (sciatica).
Bursitis is the most common cause of hip pain; arthritis is second most common.
Physical therapy is essential to the treatment, rehabilitation, and prevention
of many of the conditions that affect the hip and its surrounding supporting
structures.