Is My Hip Pain an Early Sign of Arthritis?
As we get older, every morning begins to sound like a bowl full of Rice Krispies as our bones and joints snap, crackle, and pop. Occasionally, these creaking sounds are accompanied by pain in our hips, knees, and back. Even though you take care of your body through proper nutrition and exercise, age has a way of making mobility difficult. Especially for those suffering from osteoarthritis. This is your guide to understanding if that hip pain you experience is actually arthritis. Osteoarthritis is defined as degenerative pain in your joints caused by general wear and tear. Within your joints, a tough rubbery tissue known as cartilage acts as a cushion between your bones. For instance, without cartilage, running or walking would be almost unbearable due to the pain of your femur bone colliding into your lower leg bones and pelvis. Over time, this cartilage becomes worn out with age and use. The increased friction of your bones leads to the joint becoming inflamed and painful. Usually