Hip Osteoarthritis
Mr Kosuge’s Patient Information Booklet on Hip Osteoarthritis. Please click on image to access the leaflet.
What is Hip Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis of the hip is the most common reason for hip replacement surgery in the United Kingdom. It is a condition in which the smooth articular cartilage covering the surfaces of the hip joint gradually wears away, leading to pain, stiffness, and progressive difficulty with movement. Whilst the condition is often described as 'wear and tear', this is an oversimplification — the underlying process involves changes to the cartilage, bone, and surrounding soft tissues.
Mr Dennis Kosuge is a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon with a specialist interest in hip conditions, including osteoarthritis. He sees patients at The Rivers Hospital in Sawbridgeworth (private) and The Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow (NHS), drawing patients from across Essex and Hertfordshire.
Symptoms
The symptoms of hip osteoarthritis can develop gradually over months or years and vary in severity. Common symptoms include:
Pain in the groin, hip, or referred to the thigh or knee
Stiffness of the hip, particularly after periods of rest or first thing in the morning
A reduced range of movement, making activities such as putting on shoes and socks more difficult
A limp or altered gait
A grating or grinding sensation in the hip joint
Pain that worsens with activity and, in more advanced cases, is present at rest or at night
Mr Kosuge’s Patient Information Booklet on Hip Replacement surgery. Please click on image to access the booklet.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a careful clinical history and examination, supported by imaging. Plain X-rays of the hip typically demonstrate narrowing of the joint space, osteophyte (bone spur) formation, and subchondral sclerosis — all hallmarks of osteoarthritis. In some cases, an MRI scan may be requested to provide additional information about the soft tissues and cartilage.
Treatment Options
Mr Kosuge's approach to hip osteoarthritis begins with non-surgical management wherever possible. Treatment options include:
Activity modification and education about the condition
Physiotherapy and targeted exercise programmes to improve strength and joint stability
Pain relief medication, including anti-inflammatory drugs
Weight management advice, as excess body weight increases joint loading
Hip injection to provide symptomatic relief
When non-surgical measures are no longer providing adequate relief and your quality of life is significantly affected, hip replacement surgery may be recommended. Mr Kosuge is highly experienced in total hip replacement and will guide you through all available options.
Book a Consultation
If you are experiencing hip pain and suspect you may have osteoarthritis, Mr Kosuge offers expert assessment and a full range of treatment options at The Rivers Hospital, Sawbridgeworth, and The Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow. Private consultations are available for self-pay and insured patients.
To book an appointment, please call 01279 602675 or use the online booking link below.
NHS referrals to The Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow are also accepted via your GP.