A capsule of cartilage and fluid cushions the top of the thighbone (femoral head) against the hip socket (acetabulum). Arthritic hip pain can stem from the loss of this cushion or from the fusing of nearby joints with scar tissue from chronic inflammation.

Symptoms

Hip pain is worse in the morning and can be felt in the groin, thigh or buttocks. An individual may be able to perform light activity, but pain may increase during or after vigorous exercise. The hip may also pop or snap.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the body's immune response may cause inflammation of hip joints. In addition, rheumatoid arthritis can cause pain in both hips at the same time.

Osteoarthritis

According to the Cleveland Clinic, wear and tear on hip joints erodes cartilage, allowing direct contact between the femoral head and acetabulum. The constant grinding and pain may affect one or both hips.

Ankylosing Spondylitis

According to the Spondylitis Association of America, ankylosing spondylitis inflames and fuses spinal joints. When ankylosing spondylitis inflames the connection between spine and pelvis (sacroiliac joint), the advancing fusion prevents movement and causes hip pain.

Considerations

Arthritis can shorten the leg attached to the affected hip and lead to knee problems and chronic pain. If nonsurgical treatments with medications and physical therapy fail, your doctor may suggest bone grafts or total hip replacement.

Source:

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Inflammatory Arthritis of the Hip

Cleveland Clinic: Osteoarthritis

Spondylitis Association of America: Complications

More Information:

Arthritis Foundation

Cleveland Clinic: Osteoarthritis---What You Need to Know