06 Apr Top Causes of Hip Arthritis

Hip arthritis is a very common condition in the United States.  In fact, over 20% of people in the United States have hip arthritis and associated pain.  Many people who suffer from hip arthritis attempt some form of treatment, whether that be in the form of lifestyle changes, medication, or surgery.  Often, these treatments still leave people with associated pain.  However, newer therapies, such as stem cell therapy have been shown to provide a significant amount of pain relief for patients who have hip arthritis.  While various traditional and alternative treatments do exist for hip arthritis, the best course of action is prevention.  Understanding the top causes of hip arthritis can help people to minimize their risk of developing it in the future.

1. Genetics

Genetics is, unfortunately, at play in various forms of hip arthritis.  Some people have joints shaped in ways that are conducive to developing arthritis or are more prone to poor bone health than others.  If genetics are playing a role in the cause of your hip arthritis, you will more than likely have other family members who suffer from the condition.  Unfortunately, there is not much you can do when it comes to genetics, and this is just a matter of getting the short end of the stick.

2. Unhealthy Lifestyle

With the fast-paced world we live in, easy access to junk food, and extreme stress most people are under with their jobs and financial security, it is no surprise that obesity is showing up at higher rates than ever before.  Excess weight can lead to extra pressure on weight-bearing joints, such as the hip, and thus lead to early wear and tear, causing arthritis.  Fortunately, this is something that is within your power to change.  If you have already been diagnosed with hip arthritis, making lifestyle changes to eat healthier and workout more can help you to lose weight and potentially lessen the pain you may currently be feeling.  If you have not been diagnosed with hip arthritis but are overweight, making lifestyle changes now may help prevent a hip arthritis diagnosis in the future.

3. Repetitive Motion

            Many people do not think about repetitive motion as something that can lead to hip arthritis pain.  However, it is one of the more common reasons people complain about this kind of pain.  Our hips are a part of our body that we use a great deal every day, especially if you are someone who works out constantly.  Running, while great for a good cardio workout, can have a lot of negative impact on the hips.  This is particularly true with running on hard surfaces.  The hard impact of running can vibrate into the hip joint, causing premature wear and tear.  This can, in turn, lead to arthritis.  Fortunately, limiting repetitive motion is within your control.  If you enjoy cardio, choose to ride a bike or join a dance class.  If you absolutely need to run, run on a softer track instead of concrete, or use a treadmill instead.

While there are certain causes of hip arthritis that may be out of your control, there are many causes that are well within your control.  Beginning to make changes that can help reduce your likelihood of developing hip arthritis, or lessen the painful symptoms you feel can greatly improve your quality of life.