Highgate Hip Unit, Highgate

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020 8341 4182

You’ll have access to London’s leading Consultant Hip Surgeons, Sports & Exercise Medicine Consultants, Pain Management Consultants, Chartered Physiotherapists, and specialist MSK Radiologists.

We are equipped with two state-of-the-art theatres fitted with laminar flow systems for specialist Orthopaedic procedures. Our highly skilled theatre and nursing staff are on hand to support you throughout your procedure and recovery, providing you with first-class care.

Hip pain

The hip is an important joint as it controls a range of movements, such as stretching and bending. It also supports the body during walking, standing and running. The joint consists of a ball and a socket which are connected by bands known as ligaments; these are lubricated to guard against friction. Cartilage surrounds the joint and helps to stop the bones from rubbing together.

What can cause hip pain?

Although injuries can be the root cause of hip pain, arthritis can also be a problem. Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage inside a hip joint wears away, so the bones rub against each other. In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system attacks the lining of the joint which results in pain and stiffness in the hip.

Non-surgical treatment

Medication can help with hip pain and there is a range of options available, including steroid injections, pain-relieving gels and creams as well as anti-inflammatory drugs. There are also drugs specifically aimed at tackling the immune system, which can help with rheumatoid arthritis – these are known as disease-modifying medications.

Physiotherapy can be very effective in tackling symptoms, as it strengthens the muscles which surround the joint, therefore improving flexibility, maintaining a range of movements and decreasing inflammation. It is also very important in rehabilitation after an injury or an operation.