Can You Have Osteoporosis in the Hip?

Osteoporosis is a debilitating condition of the bones that can occur in several different parts of the body. Occasionally, a rare form of osteoporosis will develop in the hip joints, resulting in severely restricted mobility of the hips.

Identification

• Transient osteoporosis is a painful and reversible form of osteoporosis that develops in the hip joints. This form of osteoporosis commonly affects women in their third trimester of pregnancy and middle-aged men.

Symptoms

• The symptoms of transient osteoporosis in the hips include pain in the front of the thigh, side of the hip, buttocks and groin region. The pain becomes worse with turning movements and weight bearing, and tends to increase gradually over time.

Considerations

• Some people with transient osteoporosis are unable to walk without assistance and may develop a change in their gait.

Treatment

• Transient osteoporosis of the hip generally goes away on its own within 12 months of its onset. However, pain medications may be prescribed to help relieve the pain associated with the condition. Also, using crutches or a cane while walking will help relieve the stress on the hip joint.

Warning

• The onset of transient osteoporosis in the hips causes the bones to weaken, which greatly increases the risk of a hip fracture. A hip fracture commonly requires surgery and extensive bed rest to correct the problem.