Osteoarthritis of the Hip and Chiropractic Treatment

Chiropractic Examination and Osteoarthritis of the Hip

There is little evidence that structural changes of osteoarthritis can be changed or reversed, but some cases have been reported. But we know that chiropractic treatment will help you avoid unnecessary pain and disability and slow the progression of the disease.

Hence, delaying possible surgery or maybe even avoiding the need for it. Apart from examining the hip joint, it is important to include an examination of the back, knee, ankle and foot, as all these areas can influence the hip problem. Although the physical examination easily picks up the problem, an x-ray examination is necessary to confirm the diagnosis. The x-ray findings will also give a clearer picture of how severe the problem is. This will help the chiropractor to give an accurate prognosis, rule out other causes and help to select the most appropriate treatment.

How Can Chiropractic Treatment Help Osteoarthritis?

The aims of the treatment are to:

• Reduce inflammation
• Improve movement of the joint
• Relax painful muscle spasms
• Strengthen weakened muscles
• Lifestyle and exercise advice
• Nutritional advice

The treatment will involve stretching and massage techniques to tight and tender muscles, gentle mobilisation techniques and manipulation of the affected joints and the use of ultrasound or interferential modalities. You will also be given exercises based on your personal need and fitness level.

Supervised exercise programmes have been shown to be far more effective than unsupervised programmes and we would therefore suggest that it should be your first

What if I need surgery?

Some cases of severe osteoarthritis may need to be referred for an orthopaedic opinion and may need surgery, but this should not necessarily be your first option.

Chiropractic treatment may help you delay any need for surgery and the earlier you receive treatment the more likely you are to benefit. However, should you need surgery, rehabilitation after surgery is important to strengthen your muscles and restore or maintain the flexibility of your hip and other related joints.

Any physical preparations you make before the surgery can affect both the outcome and your recovery time. It is also worth remembering that doing exercises to strengthen your upper body will help you cope better with crutches or a walker after surgery. If you familiarise yourself with postoperative exercises and practice them before the surgery, they will be easier to perform after the surgery.