What is coxarthrosis?
Coxarthrosis is a degenerative disease of the hip joint that causes the gradual wear and tear of the cartilage covering the joint. Under normal conditions, cartilage acts as a shock absorber, allowing smooth joint movement and reducing friction. However, in coxarthrosis, the cartilage gradually deteriorates, leading to pain, stiffness, and a reduced range of motion in the hip. This condition often occurs in older adults but can also develop due to injuries, hereditary factors, or excessive stress on the joint.
Coxarthrosis can be primary, when there is no obvious cause, or secondary, when it is triggered by other factors such as injuries or other diseases (e.g., hip dysplasia).
Impact on the hips and mobility
Coxarthrosis has a significant impact on hip function and the ability to perform daily activities. Since the hip is a key joint for walking, sitting, and moving, damage to this joint can seriously limit mobility and quality of life. People with coxarthrosis often experience hip pain that may radiate to the groin, thighs, or knee. In addition to pain, hip mobility decreases, making it difficult to bend or rotate the leg. In advanced cases, complete immobilization of the hip may occur, which can require surgical interventions such as joint replacement.
Causes of coxarthrosis
Degenerative changes in the joints
One of the most common causes of coxarthrosis is degenerative changes that occur as a result of the natural aging process. As we age, the cartilage that covers the joints gradually loses its elasticity and ability to regenerate. Joints, including the hips, are subject to wear and tear due to constant load throughout life. Over time, damaged cartilage causes friction between the bones, which leads to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. Degeneration can progress faster in people who have suffered previous injuries or who are overweight.
Injuries and trauma
Injuries, such as hip fractures, dislocations, or other trauma, can significantly contribute to the development of coxarthrosis. Injuries that damage the structures of the hip, including the cartilage, can lead to an accelerated degeneration process. An injured joint may become less stable, which increases the risk of further damage over time. For example, a hip fracture or ligament injury can alter the way the joint functions, which can speed up cartilage loss and the development of arthritis.
Risk factors and genetics
There are numerous risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing coxarthrosis. Genetics plays a key role — if your parents or close relatives have had coxarthrosis, there is a higher chance that you will develop this condition as well. In addition to genetics, being overweight is one of the most significant risk factors. Excess weight puts additional pressure on the joints, including the hips, which can accelerate the degeneration process. Other risk factors include injuries, poor movement habits, excessive joint loading, and certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or rheumatoid arthritis, which can contribute to the development of coxarthrosis.
Symptoms of coxarthrosis
Hip pain
One of the most common and specific symptoms of coxarthrosis is pain in the front or side of the hip. This pain often develops gradually and may be mild to moderate in the early stages of the disease. As the condition progresses, the pain can become more intense and may radiate to the groin, thighs, or even the knee. In the beginning, pain usually occurs during physical activity, such as walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods, while in advanced stages it can be present even at rest. Because of this, a person suffering from coxarthrosis may notice a reduced ability to perform daily activities, and the pain can affect their quality of life.
Difficulty moving and stiffness
Coxarthrosis leads to reduced hip mobility. As cartilage degeneration progresses, the joint becomes less flexible. This can cause stiffness and limited movement, especially in the morning or after prolonged periods of inactivity. The feeling of stiffness is often more pronounced during the first few steps after waking up or after sitting for a long time, when the joints have not moved. This stiffness usually eases with activity, but as the disease advances, reduced mobility becomes permanent, which can interfere with basic movements such as bending, turning, or lifting the leg.
Inflammation and swelling
Inflammation is common in coxarthrosis because the damaged joint triggers a body reaction that manifests as swelling, redness, and increased temperature around the hip area. Swelling can occur due to the accumulation of fluid in the joint (synovial fluid), which can increase pressure on surrounding structures and cause additional discomfort. Inflammation can create a feeling of “tightness” in the hip and worsen pain symptoms. In addition, inflamed joints often become more vulnerable to injury and can cause extra discomfort during movement, further limiting joint function.
As the disease progresses, the symptoms worsen, and pain and stiffness become more frequent and severe, which can seriously affect the ability to perform daily activities such as walking, bending, or lifting heavy objects. In the end, without proper treatment, coxarthrosis can lead to significant loss of hip function, requiring professional help and therapy.
Treatment of coxarthrosis: Fizio i Estetik Center In Locco
Physical therapy and rehabilitation
Physical therapy plays a key role in the treatment of coxarthrosis as it focuses on restoring mobility, strengthening the muscles that support the hip joint, and preventing further damage. At Fizio and Estetik Center In Locco, our physiotherapists apply the following methods:
Electrotherapy: Electrotherapy uses electrical impulses to stimulate the muscles around the hip, improve circulation, and reduce pain. This therapy can help relax tense muscles surrounding the hip, which may decrease pain and improve mobility. Additionally, stimulation of circulation can contribute to better nutrition of joint tissues and slow down disease progression.
Magnetotherapy: The use of magnetic fields in therapy can improve microcirculation in the hip joint, promoting the regeneration of damaged tissues and slowing cartilage degeneration. Magnetotherapy can also help reduce pain and inflammation, which are common in coxarthrosis, thereby improving hip function and reducing discomfort during walking and movement.
Therapeutic ultrasound: Ultrasound therapy uses high-frequency sound waves that penetrate deep tissue layers to help reduce pain and inflammation in the hip. It also improves circulation and accelerates tissue regeneration, which can aid in reducing symptoms of coxarthrosis such as pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
Shockwave therapy: Shockwave therapy utilizes high-intensity acoustic waves to reduce pain and stimulate tissue regeneration. This therapy is effective in treating pain caused by degenerative changes in the joints, such as coxarthrosis. Shockwave therapy can improve circulation in the hip and promote the healing process of damaged tissues, reducing pain and enhancing joint function.
Laser therapy: Low-intensity light (laser) is used to stimulate tissue regeneration and reduce pain and inflammation. In the treatment of coxarthrosis, laser therapy can help alleviate hip pain and stiffness as well as accelerate the recovery process of damaged tissues. Additionally, it reduces joint inflammation and improves hip function.
How can Fizio and Estetik Center In Locco help?
At Fizio and Estetik Center In Locco, we provide a comprehensive approach to treating coxarthrosis with the goal of helping our patients achieve optimal results and improve their quality of life. Our team of experts offers:
Specialized therapies: Through individually tailored treatment plans, our team uses advanced methods of electrotherapy, massage, ultrasound therapy, and kinesitherapy to reduce pain and improve mobility of the hip joint.
Holistic approach: We understand that every person is unique, so our approach is individualized according to each patient’s specific condition. Through consultations with our physiotherapists, we develop personalized treatment plans that suit your needs and physical condition.
Prevention and education: Fizio and Estetik Center In Locco focuses not only on treatment but also on preventing further problems. We educate our patients about the importance of maintaining a healthy body weight, proper posture, and ergonomics to reduce the risk of additional injuries and disease progression.
Prevention of coxarthrosis: The key to maintaining hip health
Coxarthrosis, as a degenerative hip disease, can significantly affect quality of life, but with timely preventive measures, it is possible to reduce the risk of its occurrence and slow its progression. Prevention of coxarthrosis involves a combination of physical exercises, healthy lifestyle habits, and education on proper body posture. At the In Locco Physio and Aesthetic Center, we provide advice and therapies that help preserve hip health, strengthen muscles, and reduce the risk of injuries.
Exercises to Strengthen Hip Muscles
One of the key factors in preventing coxarthrosis is strengthening the muscles that support the hip joint. Strong muscular support reduces stress on the joint and prevents its degenerative changes. At the In Locco Physio and Aesthetic Center, we offer specialized exercise programs focusing on:
Gluteal muscle strengthening: These muscles play a crucial role in stabilizing the hip and its movement. Exercises such as bridges, squats, and lunges can significantly improve their strength.
Quadriceps strengthening: This muscle, located at the front of the thigh, supports the knee and hip. Exercises like resistance training, squats, and leg lifts help strengthen the quadriceps and reduce pressure on the hip joints.
Corrective exercises for thigh muscles and adductors: Strengthening the inner thigh muscles and those that stabilize the hip can help maintain proper joint alignment and reduce stress on it.
Exercises at In Locco are adapted individually for each patient, depending on their physical condition and rehabilitation goals, to achieve optimal results.
Healthy Lifestyle and Weight Management
Excess body weight is one of the main risk factors for developing coxarthrosis. Extra kilograms put additional pressure on the hip joints, which can accelerate degenerative changes. A healthy lifestyle, emphasizing proper nutrition and weight management, is crucial for prevention:
Balanced nutrition: A diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce joint inflammation and maintain bone and cartilage health. It is also important to consume enough protein to support muscle growth and recovery.
Maintaining a healthy weight: Regular exercise and a healthy diet enable achieving and maintaining a healthy body mass, thereby reducing the load on the hip joints.
Aerobic activities: Walking, cycling, swimming, and other aerobic exercises help burn calories, improve cardiovascular health, and strengthen muscles without overloading the joints.
Tips for Proper Movement and Ergonomics
Proper movement and posture are key to reducing stress on the hip joints and preventing their degenerative changes. At In Locco Physio and Aesthetic Center, we educate patients about correct ergonomics and movement:
Correct posture: It is important to maintain proper posture while sitting, standing, and walking. This includes a straight spine, engaged abdominal muscles, and relaxed shoulders, which reduce excessive pressure on the hip joints.
Ergonomic sitting habits: When sitting, it is important to use a chair with good back support and ensure that feet are flat on the floor, with knees level with the hips. These habits help reduce hip joint strain during prolonged sitting.
Proper lifting techniques: When lifting heavy objects, it is crucial to use the legs rather than the back, and keep the object close to the body to minimize stress on the hip joints.