Hip Replacement Surgery, Hip Injury, Hip Arthroscopy and Hip Osteoarthritis

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about hip injuries, hip pain, hip replacement surgery, hip arthroscopy, hip osteoarthritis, hip bursitis and other orthopedic conditions of the hip. If you have additional questions about our orthopedic medical services, please give us a call at 502-212-2663 to make an appointment or for more information. 

Is hip osteoarthritis common?

Hip osteoarthritis is less common than knee arthritis. The majority of people over age 65 will have x-ray findings revealing some degree of hip osteoarthritis.

What is trochanteric bursitis?

Trochanteric bursitis is a type of hip bursitis. Most people with this type of hip bursitis will complain of a sharp pain located over the outer half on the hip. It hurts with direct pressure over the area such as sleeping on that side at night. Hip flexing can also worsen the symptoms such as climbing stairs. There is a small sac of fluid that naturally occurs between the greater trochanteric region of the hip bone and the IT band. If the bursa becomes inflammed the fluid increases and pain occurs.

Could you tell me more about osteonecrosis and why it occurs?

Osteonecrosis is a condition where the bone involved loses it’s blood supply and starts to die. Causes range from repetitive micro trauma to sickle cell disease. Other known causes of osteonecrosis are: alcoholism and oral steroid use.

There is also a category called idiopathic. Idiopathic means we have no idea how it occurred. Common areas that it occurs in the body are: medial aspect of the knee, the capitellum bone of the elbow, the talar bone of the ankle and hip. Treatment ranges from observation, non weight bearing to surgery. The surgery can range from a bone marrow stimulation procedure to undergoing a joint replacement (arthroplasty).

What can be done about a trochanteric fracture?

A non displaced trochanteric fracture can be treated with modifications in weight bearing, that is the use of crutches or a wheelchair. If the fracture is displaced, orthopedic surgery may be indicated.

Check out Dr. Grossfeld’s Orthopedic and Sports Medicine blog for information about hip replacement surgery, hip osteoarthritis, hip injuries, hip pain and more.

Hip Injuries and Conditions
Hip Replacement Surgery