What Is Hip Joint Arthritis - Explained By Dr. Satish Kale

Dr. Satish Kale, a robotic joint replacement specialist at Lokmanya Hospital, Pune, explains that the hip joint, located on both sides of the pelvis, is a ball-and-socket joint. This joint is covered with a smooth surface called cartilage. When the cartilage is healthy, the joint functions smoothly and painlessly. However, if the surface is damaged or develops pits, it leads to arthritis in the hip joint.

How Does Hip Arthritis Develop?

Hip arthritis can occur when the blood supply to the ball of the joint is disrupted. This leads to the deterioration of the ball, making it rough and cracked. Over time, swelling develops in the joint, causing pain while walking, difficulty sitting cross-legged, or carrying out routine daily activities like sitting on chairs, floor seating, or traveling.

Causes of Hip Joint Damage

Several factors can lead to hip joint arthritis. Age-related wear and tear is a common cause. Fractures in the femoral neck area can also disrupt blood flow to the ball, leading to its decay—a condition known as avascular necrosis. This condition can develop due to the use of steroids, smoking, alcohol consumption, COVID infection, viral infections, or certain rare blood disorders like hyperviscosity.

What Happens When the Hip Joint Wears Out?

When blood flow to the ball is affected, its surface becomes uneven and damaged. This is what is referred to as hip joint degeneration. As the damage progresses, the pain intensifies and mobility is significantly reduced.

Is There a Solution for Hip Joint Degeneration?

Yes, there is an effective solution. Dr. Kale explains that through a surgical procedure, a new ball and stem are implanted into the hip joint. This also involves replacing the damaged socket. The procedure is called Total Hip Replacement, where both parts of the joint are replaced.

Advancements in Hip Replacement Implants

Today, advanced ceramic-on-ceramic implants are available that can last up to 40 years. Hip joint replacement is considered a highly effective treatment and can significantly improve quality of life when done by experienced joint replacement surgeons.

Life After Total Hip Replacement

According to Dr. Kale, there is no need to fear if diagnosed with arthritis or avascular necrosis at Grade 3 or Grade 4. With a properly performed Total Hip Replacement, patients can resume walking, sitting, and traveling effortlessly. The surgery, when done skillfully, helps restore mobility and comfort.

FAQs

1. What is hip joint arthritis?
Hip joint arthritis is the degeneration of the cartilage in the ball-and-socket joint, causing pain and restricted movement.
2. What are the common symptoms?
Pain while walking, difficulty sitting cross-legged, and discomfort during daily activities are common symptoms.
3. What causes hip joint arthritis?
Age-related wear, fractures, disrupted blood supply, and medical conditions like avascular necrosis are common causes.
4. Is hip joint degeneration treatable?
Yes, it can be treated effectively through Total Hip Replacement surgery.
5. What is Total Hip Replacement?
It is a surgical procedure where both the ball and socket of the hip joint are replaced with artificial implants.
6. Are the new implants long-lasting?
Yes, ceramic implants available today can last up to 40 years.
7. Will mobility improve after surgery?
Absolutely. Patients can return to regular activities like walking, sitting, and traveling without discomfort.