How Is Hip Osteoarthritis Treated?

---

Hip osteoarthritis is primarily treated with exercise, self-care and pain relief. The right measures can reduce pain, improve mobility and increase safety in everyday life.

---

What Is Hip Osteoarthritis?

Hip osteoarthritis is a condition in which the cartilage in the hip joint gradually breaks down. As the cartilage becomes thinner, the joint’s shock-absorbing function deteriorates, which can lead to pain, stiffness and reduced mobility. Symptoms usually develop slowly and may affect walking ability, balance and daily activities [1].

How Is Hip Osteoarthritis Treated?

Treatment for hip osteoarthritis aims to relieve symptoms, preserve mobility and improve quality of life. Several treatment methods are often combined.

1. Information and Self-Care

Understanding hip osteoarthritis is an important part of treatment. Knowing how the joint is affected makes it easier to adapt daily activities and reduce strain on the hip. Distributing activities evenly throughout the day and avoiding repetitive movements can help reduce pain [2].

2. Exercise and Physical Activity

Tailored exercise is one of the most important treatments for hip osteoarthritis. The goal is to strengthen the muscles around the hip, improve mobility and reduce pain. A physiotherapist can help design an individual exercise program. Regular movement is recommended rather than rest [3].

3. Weight Loss When Needed

In cases of overweight, weight loss can reduce the load on the hip joint and help relieve symptoms. Even a modest weight reduction can have a noticeable effect on pain and function [1].

4. Pain Relief and Medication

Pain-relieving medications, such as paracetamol or anti-inflammatory drugs, may be used when needed. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may also be considered. Medication should always be used in consultation with healthcare professionals [2].

5. Assistive Devices and Everyday Adaptations

Walking aids, such as a cane or walker, can reduce strain on the hip joint and relieve pain when walking. Home adaptations, such as raised chairs or toilet seats, can also make everyday life easier [4].

When Is Further Treatment Needed?

If symptoms are severe and significantly affect quality of life despite other treatments, surgery may be considered. Hip replacement surgery, in which the damaged joint is replaced with a prosthesis, is a common and often effective treatment for severe hip osteoarthritis [3].

Living With Hip Osteoarthritis

Hip osteoarthritis can affect walking ability and balance, increasing the risk of falls. For people who live alone, this may lead to feelings of insecurity in everyday life. With the right treatment, assistive devices and safety solutions, many people can continue to live active and independent lives—even with hip osteoarthritis.

Safety alarm with automatic fall alarm can increase safety for people with an increased risk of falling

Sensorem’s personal alarm is an example of a technical aid specially developed for people who have an increased risk of falling. The personal alarm can automatically trigger the alarm in the event of a fall and then call relatives using the watch’s built-in speakerphone with two-way communication. The personal alarm works outdoors and has built-in GPS positioning so that relatives can see the user’s position on a map in the Sensorem app.