Osteoarthritis is a prevalent form of arthritis, especially affecting older individuals, leading to hip pain and decreased mobility. The condition involves degeneration of cartilage, leading to bone changes and joint inflammation. Symptoms may include persistent or worsening pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion in the hip joint. Risk factors for developing hip arthritis include age, obesity, gender, genetics, occupation, joint shape, previous injury or surgery, and certain illnesses or infections.

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs. Non-surgical pain relief options for hip arthritis include weight loss, activity modification, hot/cold therapy, and wearing supportive footwear. Medications like anti-inflammatories and joint injections can also provide relief, though supplements like glucosamine/chondroitin are not recommended.

The latest treatment options for hip joint pain include minimally invasive procedures such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA), cooled radiofrequency ablation (c-RFA), and cryoablation. These techniques target specific nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals from the hip joint to the brain. RFA uses heat generated by radio waves to impair nerve function, while c-RFA delivers more energy to surrounding tissues for broader pain relief. Cryoablation, on the other hand, involves freezing the nerves to block pain signals. These procedures offer advantages such as minimal invasiveness, quick pain relief, and no need for prolonged rehabilitation. They are particularly beneficial for individuals who are not suitable candidates for surgery or have persistent pain despite previous treatments.