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HomeReview of the conditionCharacteristics of rheumatoid arthritis of the hipIncidence and risk factorsDiagnosis Medications Exercises Possible benefits of hip surgery for rheumatoid arthritisConsidering surgeryPreparing for surgeryAbout the procedureRecovering from surgeryRehabilitationConclusion

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Hip Surgery for Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Last updated Thursday, January 06, 2005

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Review of the condition

What are some general characteristics of rheumatoid arthritis of the hip? What are its usual manifestations?

As with any joint in the body, the hip joint can be destroyed by rheumatoid arthritis. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and disability. Pain associated with destruction of the hip joint typically occurs in the groin, upper outer thigh, and/or buttock. In the early stages of the disease it is aggravated by weight bearing activity. Later, it occurs at rest and can interfere with sleep.

How common is rheumatoid arthritis of the hip (statistics, demographics, risk factors)?

Hip joint involvement by RA is less common and occurs later than other major joints, such as the knees.

How is rheumatoid arthritis of the hip diagnosed? What tests or exams may be used?

A thorough history will determine the patient?s overall health and functional capacity. Examination of the spine, hips, knees, ankles and feet for joint range of motion and deformity is done. Radiographs (X-rays) of the involved joints are obtained. These usually include neck X-rays in which the patient is first asked to bend their head forward, then backward. Occasionally, an MRI scan, CAT scan (CT), or Bone-scan may be necessary.

Can medications help rheumatoid arthritis of the hip?

In early stages of RA, anti-inflammatory medications can be effective in decreasing pain and may slow the progression of joint destruction caused by RA.

Can exercises help rheumatoid arthritis of the hip?

Once joint destruction of the hip has set in, there are no specific exercises that can stop or arrest the development and progression of destruction. Regular range of motion exercises and weight bearing activity are important in maintaining muscle strength and overall aerobic (heart and lung) capacity, and help prevent the development of osteoporosis, which can complicate later treatment.

Specifically, how is rheumatoid arthritis of the hip improved by hip surgery for rheumatoid arthritis?

Total hip replacement very effectively eliminates the pain caused by RA of the hip.

Surgery for rheumatoid arthritis of the hip at the University of Washington

If you are interested in making an appointment to discuss this procedure, you can request an appointment using our online referrals website. To request a referral online, please click here. You can also call 206-598-4288 (outside the Seattle area: 800-440-3280) to make an appointment.


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