Hip

This section of the website is intended to provide information on some common Hip operations and conditions.

Please click on the links to the left to find out more about a particular procedure.

Hip Anatomy

The hip joint is composed of a ball and socket joint. The femoral head (ball) is the top of the femur (thigh bone) and the acetabulum (part of the pelvis) is the socket. These surfaces are both covered by articular (joint lining) cartilage. This is a specialised lining which allows smooth, pain free motion of the joint and damage to this lining results in arthritis.

The lining of the joint is a tissue which secretes fluid that helps with lubrication. This layer can become swollen and irritated (inflammation). This is called inflammatory arthritis and the most common form of this is rheumatoid arthritis.

The labrum is a specialised structure in the socket of the hip joint which adds to the stability of the joint. Damage to this structure can result in catching and pain in the joint. The capsule surrounds the lining tissue of the joint and also helps to stabilise the joint.

There are also several strong ligaments holding the hip joint in place. Around the joint are muscles, which move the hip and the hip to move.