Hip osteoarthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a degenerative joint disease that causes the cartilage in the hip joint to wear away leading to pain, stiffness and reduced mobility. While aging is a major risk factor for developing hip osteoarthritis it can also be triggered by several other factors. In this blog post, we will explore some of the common triggers of hip osteoarthritis and how physiotherapy and chiropractic care can help manage the symptoms.
Genetics: Although there are no specific genes associated with hip osteoarthritis studies have shown that certain genetic variations can increase your risk of developing the condition. If you have a family history of hip osteoarthritis, you may be more likely to develop it yourself.
Obesity: Being overweight or obese puts extra pressure on your joints, including your hips. This can speed up the wearing down of cartilage in the hip joint and increase your risk of developing hip osteoarthritis. Losing weight through diet and exercise can help reduce this risk.
Previous injuries: Injuries to the hip joint, such as fractures or dislocations, can cause damage to the cartilage and increase your risk of developing osteoarthritis later in life. If you have had a previous injury to your hip joint, it is important to take steps to protect it from further damage.
Repetitive stress: Activities that involve repetitive stress on the hips, such as running or jumping, can also increase your risk of developing hip osteoarthritis over time. If you participate in these types of activities regularly, it is important to use proper form and technique to prevent injury.
Poor posture: Poor posture can put extra stress on your hips and other joints, leading to wear and tear over time. Physiotherapy and chiropractic care can help improve your posture and reduce the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
Physiotherapy and chiropractic care can also be beneficial for managing the symptoms of hip osteoarthritis. Physiotherapy can help improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion in the hip joint through exercises and stretches. Chiropractic care can help relieve pain and improve joint function through spinal adjustments and other techniques.
Hip osteoarthritis is a common condition that can be triggered by several factors, including genetics, obesity, previous injuries, repetitive stress, and poor posture. While these triggers cannot always be avoided, taking steps to manage them can help reduce your risk of developing hip osteoarthritis. If you do develop this condition, physiotherapy and chiropractic care can be effective in managing your symptoms and improving your quality of life. Contact a physiotherapist or chiropractor today to learn more about how they can help you manage hip osteoarthritis.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Nitin Nair, BPT, R/TRO DIP, PT, or another Kitchener physiotherapist at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
