Hip osteoarthritis

Hip osteoarthritis often presents as groin pain, buttock pain, stiffness when putting on socks or shoes, and reduced tolerance for walking, standing or turning in bed. Early hip OA is commonly mistaken for adductor strain, low-back pain or general stiffness.

Knee OA Hip OA Ankle OA Tennis elbow Shoulder impingement Rotator cuff injury

Common symptoms

Groin pain with walking, standing or stairs
Loss of hip rotation and stiffness putting on shoes and socks
Night discomfort or difficulty lying on the affected side
Reduced stride length, limping or reduced confidence in activity
Pain during twisting, pivoting or getting out of a car

Assessment

History to clarify groin-driven hip pain versus referred pain
Examination of hip range, strength, gait and single-leg control
Screening of lumbar spine, sacroiliac region and surrounding soft tissues
Ultrasound may help assess associated bursitis or tendon pathology, but X-ray is often more useful for joint arthritis severity

Rehabilitation approach

Strengthening for gluteals, hip abductors and trunk support
Movement strategies to reduce pinching and overload
Walking-volume management and graded return to activity
Manual therapy or soft-tissue treatment as an adjunct, not the whole plan
Review of footwear, sleep positioning and flare-up management

Injection discussion

For selected patients, image-guided injection may be considered if symptoms remain a barrier to progress
The aim is to improve comfort and function enough to continue strengthening and daily activity
All risks, benefits and alternatives should be discussed before proceeding

When to get assessed

Assessment is useful if symptoms are persistent, recurring, limiting work or sport, or if you are unsure whether physiotherapy, imaging or injection is the most appropriate next step.

How ultrasound can help

Ultrasound is not automatically required for every patient. It is most useful when it will change management, improve diagnostic confidence or guide treatment safely.

Where injection fits

Injection is considered only where clinically appropriate after discussion of risks, benefits and alternatives. The aim is usually to reduce pain enough to progress rehabilitation, not to replace rehabilitation.