Arthritis in the hip is not curable, but it is treatable. Hip arthritis affects more than the hip and can cause pain down the leg. Every step you take can be a reminder that something is not right. It can affect your ability to walk, climb stairs, participate in weight-bearing activity, work and even just enjoy life. The pain can have a direct impact on your energy levels and leave you feeling fatigued. 

If you are feeling discomfort or pain around your hips that radiates down your legs, it could be a symptom of arthritis. The most common type of arthritis in the hip is osteoarthritis, but there are also three types of inflammatory arthritis: ankylosing spondylitis, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus. The earlier the diagnosis and then the treatment begins, the greater ability there will be to maintain your mobility and the function of your hip. Early treatment can help preserve the affected joint and alleviate the pain you are experiencing. 

Managing hip arthritis pain down the leg

While there is no cure for arthritis, treatments that center around lifestyle changes and pain management can ease the symptoms. There are a number of ways you can go about managing the pain, including:

• Modification of activities
• Weight loss when necessary
• Over-the-counter or prescription pain medication
• Braces or hip sleeves
• Hip replacement surgery

A physical therapist can help create a plan that helps manage your pain and may help you avoid or recover from a hip replacement. It is important that if you have arthritis in your hip to remain active and fit. Modification to your exercise program will need to be made in order to tolerate the activity. Our specialists can help you determine what strength and stretching regimen is right for your individual needs. 

Our physical therapists will begin your treatment with a full evaluation. During this time you will be examined for any underlying conditions, your range of motion, level of pain and the location of the pain. Once complete, a customized treatment plan designed to address your specific needs will be created. The goal is to help manage your pain while also improving the strength and durability of your hip joint. Stretches will be incorporated to help increase or maintain your range of motion. Following your treatment, our specialist will provide you with aftercare instructions. This is to help maintain your mobility and continue forward with less pain. 

Find physical therapy treatment for arthritis pain at Continuum Wellness

Contact us if you are experiencing hip arthritic pain or discomfort. Schedule a free screening and let our physical therapists create a treatment plan that is right for you.