What is a loose body in the hip?
A loose body is a small piece of cartilage or bone inside the hip joint. It can be the result of a hip injury, such as a fall, automobile accident, or a sports-related injury. Loose bodies can also occur as the result of long-term wear and tear to the hip joint, which is often associated with arthritis. Rarely, they can be produced by the joint’s native lining – the synovium – a process called synovial chondromatosis. Dr. Austin Chen, Boulder, Colorado orthopedic hip and sports medicine specialist has been extensively trained in treating loose bodies of the hip.
What are the symptoms of loose bodies in the hip?
Loose bodies float around within the hip joint and cause a painful sensation depending upon where the fragments migrate. The sudden, sharp pain can catch patients by surprise, and in some instances, can even cause a patient to become unstable or fall. This is often the result of the loose body temporarily becoming lodged in between the ball and socket.
What is the treatment for loose bodies of the hip?
If patients are exhibiting symptoms of loose bodies in the hip then surgical treatment is typically recommended. If left untreated, these loose fragments in the joint may lead to further deterioration of the articular cartilage. Loose bodies can be removed arthroscopically, alleviating the pain and feelings of catching or giving-way.
