Hip Arthritis Prevention
If you alter your lifestyle, it can help you reduce your risk of developing hip arthritis. Your WellStar physicians will discuss a prevention plan with you.
- Maintaining a healthy weight may slow the progression of hip osteoarthritis
- An exercise program may help reduce pain and improve range of movement.
- Regular, moderate exercise offers many benefits to people with hip arthritis. In addition to reducing hip pain and stiffness, exercise builds strong muscle around the joints.
- Stretching is a simple way to keep joints and muscles flexible.
- Exercising in the water can build strength and increase range of motion, while the water’s buoyancy reduces wear and tear on sore joints.
Help Reduce Your Risk of Hip Arthritis
- Avoid excess body fat by balancing caloric intake with ample exercise.
- Take steps to prevent injuries:
- Stretch and warm up before exercise. Cool down afterward.
- Don't overdo it.
- Wear properly fitting shoes.
- Avoid running on asphalt, concrete and other hard surfaces whenever possible.
Tests and Screenings for Hip Arthritis
The procedures or screenings your WellStar physician recommends may include:
- X-ray
- CT scan (computerized tomography)
- MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)