Arthritis of the Hip Treated in Arlington, VA

Man touching his painful arthritic hip

Specialized treatment for arthritis of the hip is available from the esteemed team of orthopedic specialists at Nirschl Orthopaedic Center. Our independent practice was founded in 1974 by Dr. Robert P. Nirschl, a renowned innovator and mentor in the field of sports medicine. Since then, we have become a trusted source of world-class orthopedic care in the Arlington, Virginia, area. Well-known and highly regarded, our board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeons are regularly recognized as “Top Doctors” in Northern Virginia by Washingtonian Magazine.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative process that frequently occurs along with the natural aging process. As the second largest weight-bearing joint in the body, the hip is often affected. Although osteoarthritis cannot be halted and its effects cannot be reversed, evidence-based treatments are available to help slow its progression, alleviate its symptoms and improve the overall health of the hip joint.

Treatment Options for Arthritis of the Hip

Nirschl Orthopaedic Center takes a conservative approach to patient care. In general, we emphasize hip preservation, reserving total hip replacement surgery as a last resort for addressing severe symptoms, such as debilitating pain and impaired mobility. In many cases, we can successfully treat arthritis of the hip with non-surgical options, such as:

  • Physical therapy and low-impact exercise
  • Weight loss if necessary
  • A walking aid, such as a cane or walker
  • Hot/cold therapy
  • Therapeutic massage
  • Topical creams
  • Oral medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Anti-inflammatory or hyaluronic acid injections

When given time, the right combination of conservative treatments can often help a patient manage their pain and stay active. Of course, each patient is unique, and it can take a bit of trial and error to find the optimal treatment plan for arthritis of the hip. In general, if the symptoms persist or worsen after a few months of non-surgical treatment, surgery may be considered. For our patients who elect hip surgery, our surgeons utilize the latest surgical tools and techniques, including anterior hip replacement and minimally invasive hip arthroplasty.

We’re Ready to Help

You don’t have to allow arthritis of the hip to change your life. Why not explore your treatment options with an experienced hip specialist at Nirschl Orthopaedic Center? Contact us today at (703) 525-2200 to schedule an appointment at our comprehensive sports medicine center in Arlington, VA.