Persistent hip pain can limit your ability to move, sleep, and enjoy daily activities. Whether caused by injury, overuse, or degenerative conditions, chronic hip discomfort can interfere with your quality of life. Fortunately, advances in minimally invasive techniques—like arthroscopic hip surgery—are offering new hope to patients seeking long-term relief. In this blog, we’ll explore how hip arthroscopy works, which conditions it can treat, and what your orthopedic surgeon may recommend as part of a comprehensive plan to help you return to a more active, pain-free lifestyle.
Key Takeaways
- Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical option often recommended for chronic hip pain when conservative treatments are unsuccessful.
- Common conditions treated with hip arthroscopy include labral tears, femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), and cartilage damage.
- A comprehensive diagnostic process—including imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans, along with a detailed clinical evaluation—is critical before proceeding with orthopedic surgery.
If you’re living with ongoing hip pain, you don’t have to face it alone. At Academy Orthopedics, our board-certified orthopedic surgeons offer advanced diagnostic and surgical solutions tailored to each patient’s condition and lifestyle. With decades of combined experience and access to cutting-edge arthroscopic techniques, we aim to restore your mobility, alleviate pain, and improve your overall quality of life.
From the early stages of hip discomfort to complex joint injuries and conditions like labral tears or femoroacetabular impingement, our team will work closely with you to determine if arthroscopic hip surgery is the right step forward. Our accredited on-site surgery center allows for efficient, compassionate care under one roof, minimizing downtime and maximizing outcomes.
Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward reclaiming comfort, strength, and function in your hip. Let our experienced specialists guide you on your journey to long-term relief and renewed mobility.
👉Also Read: Is Your Hip Pain a Sign of Avascular Necrosis? Key Symptoms to Watch For
Understanding Hip Arthroscopy
Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery designed to address various hip problems. Unlike traditional open surgery, hip arthroscopy involves making small incisions in the hip joint, allowing orthopedic surgeons to visualize and treat issues using an arthroscope connected to a small camera and a video monitor.
This procedure is typically recommended when conservative treatments have failed to alleviate hip pain. The use of hip arthroscopies has surged by over 600% in the last 15 years in the U.S., reflecting its growing popularity and effectiveness. Notably, patients who undergo hip arthroscopy often report higher satisfaction rates compared to other surgeries, thanks to its minimally invasive nature and quicker recovery times. We recommend hip arthroscopy for those seeking effective treatment options.
One of the crucial benefits of hip arthroscopy is its ability to restore mobility and prevent future hip conditions. Early treatment of hip joint problems helps patients prevent more severe issues that might necessitate hip replacement surgeries later. This makes hip arthroscopy a valuable option for those experiencing hip pain and looking to regain their quality of life.
Conditions Treated by Hip Arthroscopy
Hip arthroscopy is a highly effective, minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions that cause chronic hip pain and limit mobility. One of the most common conditions addressed through this technique is a labral tear, often associated with femoroacetabular impingement (FAI)—a structural abnormality in which the bones of the hip joint do not fit together properly. This misalignment creates abnormal contact during movement, placing excessive stress on the labrum (the cartilage rim that cushions the hip socket) and ultimately leading to tearing.
Common causes of labral tears include:
- Repetitive stress or overuse injuries, especially in athletes
- Traumatic events such as falls or accidents
- Structural abnormalities like FAI
- Degenerative joint changes, including osteoarthritis, which gradually wear down cartilage and can contribute to labral damage
When non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, pain medications, and activity modification fail to alleviate symptoms, hip arthroscopy may be recommended as a next step.
Beyond labral tears, hip arthroscopy is also used to treat a range of other intra-articular issues, including:
- Cartilage damage or delamination
- Synovitis (inflammation of the joint lining)
- Loose bodies within the joint
- Bone spurs or other irregularities that affect joint mechanics
By using small incisions and specialized instruments, orthopedic surgeons can remove damaged tissue, repair or reshape joint structures, and restore smoother movement within the hip joint. This minimally invasive treatment reduces recovery time, minimizes scarring, and helps patients return to normal activities with improved function and reduced pain.
Diagnostic Process for Hip Arthroscopy
A thorough and accurate diagnosis is essential before determining whether hip arthroscopy is the appropriate course of treatment. Since hip pain can originate from a variety of causes—ranging from soft tissue injuries to structural abnormalities—orthopaedic surgeons follow a detailed diagnostic process to evaluate the underlying condition and rule out other possible sources of discomfort.
Medical History and Symptom Assessment
The diagnostic process begins with a comprehensive review of the patient’s medical history and a discussion of their current symptoms. Key details such as the location, intensity, and duration of pain, as well as any history of injury, repetitive strain, or prior treatments, help guide the initial evaluation.
Physical Examination
A targeted physical examination is then performed to assess joint mobility, strength, range of motion, and areas of tenderness or instability. Specific orthopedic tests may be used to reproduce symptoms or detect signs of labral tears, impingement, or cartilage damage.
Imaging Studies
To obtain a clearer picture of the internal structures of the hip, imaging tests are typically ordered, including:
- X-rays – Useful for identifying bone abnormalities, joint space narrowing, and evidence of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI).
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – Particularly effective for evaluating soft tissues such as the labrum, cartilage, and surrounding ligaments. An MRI with contrast (MR arthrogram) can provide enhanced visualization of labral tears.
- CT scans – Occasionally used to assess complex bone anatomy or confirm subtle abnormalities in the joint structure.
Diagnostic Injections
In some cases, a diagnostic injection of a local anesthetic directly into the hip joint may be used to confirm the source of the pain. If the injection provides temporary relief, it strongly suggests that the pain originates within the joint, further supporting the case for hip arthroscopy.
Diagnostic Arthroscopy (When Indicated)
If imaging and clinical findings remain inconclusive, a diagnostic arthroscopy may be considered. This procedure allows direct visualization of the hip joint through a small camera inserted via a minimally invasive incision, offering both diagnostic clarity and the potential for immediate treatment if needed.
The Hip Arthroscopy Procedure
The hip arthroscopy procedure begins with the administration of anesthesia, which can be either general anesthesia or regional anesthesia, numbing the lower body. Surgeons then draw lines on the hip to mark the anatomy and incision placements, ensuring precise entry points for the surgical instruments.
During the procedure:
- The leg is put in traction to allow better access to the hip joint.
- Surgeons make two or three small incisions, each about the size of a quarter, through which they insert the arthroscope and other specialized instruments. Surgeon inserts are also utilized during this process.
- Fluoroscopy is used to ensure proper placement of the instruments within the joint, including the femoral head.
- Fluid is injected to create pressure, aiding visibility and access.
Inside the hip, the surgeon examines the condition of the cartilage and ligaments, projecting images onto a video screen for precise visualization. They can repair tears, remove damaged tissue, remove excess bone, and reshape bone as needed to address issues like labral tears and hip impingement. The entire surgical procedure typically takes about two to three hours.
Benefits of Hip Arthroscopic Surgery
Hip arthroscopic surgery offers a range of advantages for individuals suffering from chronic hip pain and dysfunction, particularly when conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, or injections fail to provide adequate relief. As a minimally invasive procedure, hip arthroscopy allows orthopedic surgeons to diagnose and treat a variety of intra-articular conditions with precision and minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.
Minimally Invasive Approach
Hip arthroscopy is usually performed through small incisions using specialized instruments and a fiber-optic camera (arthroscope). This results in less tissue damage, reduced postoperative pain, and smaller scars. The minimally invasive nature of the procedure also significantly lowers the risk of complications such as infection or excessive bleeding.
Faster Recovery and Rehabilitation
Due to reduced trauma to muscles and soft tissue, patients typically experience a shorter recovery period. Most individuals can begin physical therapy within a few days after surgery, allowing for the gradual restoration of strength, flexibility, and joint function. Many return to normal activities—including work, sports, and exercise—more quickly than with open procedures.
Precise Diagnosis and Targeted Treatment
Hip arthroscopy provides direct visualization of the hip joint, enabling surgeons to accurately identify and address issues such as labral tears, cartilage damage, loose bodies, and bone spurs. This level of precision enhances the effectiveness of treatment and improves overall outcomes.
Joint Preservation and Long-Term Relief
By addressing structural abnormalities early—such as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI)—hip arthroscopy may help prevent the progression of joint degeneration and delay or eliminate the need for future procedures like total hip replacement. Patients often report substantial pain relief and improved mobility after surgery.
High Patient Satisfaction
Many patients who undergo hip arthroscopy report high levels of satisfaction due to improved quality of life, reduced symptoms, and restored function. The procedure is especially beneficial for young, active individuals who wish to return to their previous level of physical activity without prolonged downtime.
When performed by a skilled orthopedic surgeon, hip arthroscopic surgery offers a safe, effective, and forward-looking solution for managing complex hip disorders, helping patients regain comfort and confidence in their daily movements.
Recovery After Hip Arthroscopy
Recovery after hip arthroscopy typically spans about six weeks, with many patients cleared to return to heavy exercise or sports activities after a few weeks. During the initial week post-surgery, patients should avoid putting weight on their hip and may need to use crutches to aid mobility. The recovery time is essential for ensuring proper healing.
Physical therapy is often a vital part of the recovery process, lasting from several weeks up to a few months. It helps patients regain mobility and strength in the hip joint, ensuring a smoother transition back to daily activities. Following the physical therapists’ guidance is crucial for a successful recovery.
Post-surgery, incisions may be closed using non-dissolvable sutures or surgical tape. Patients are advised to avoid activities like running, jumping, and deep squats during the recovery period to prevent complications and promote healing.
A structured rehabilitation plan not only restores mobility but also prevents complications that may prolong discomfort. If pain intensifies or is accompanied by signs of infection or other complications, patients should promptly consult their orthopedic surgeon.
Managing Pain Post-Surgery
Following hip arthroscopic surgery, patients typically experience mild to moderate pain, swelling, and stiffness. Pain management begins with medications such as NSAIDs and acetaminophen to reduce inflammation and discomfort. In some cases, short-term opioids or regional anesthesia may be used to control more severe pain during the initial recovery period. Cold therapy—such as ice packs or cryotherapy machines—is also commonly recommended in the first few days to minimize swelling and provide localized relief.
Choosing an Orthopedic Surgeon
Selecting the right orthopedic surgeon is a critical step toward achieving a successful outcome from hip arthroscopic surgery. Patients should seek a board-certified orthopedic specialist with specific training and experience in minimally invasive hip procedures. Reviewing the surgeon’s credentials, patient outcomes, and familiarity with the latest arthroscopic techniques can help ensure high-quality care. Recommendations from primary care physicians or other trusted healthcare providers can also guide this decision.
Equally important is choosing a surgeon who values open communication and patient-centered care. A thorough consultation should involve a detailed explanation of the diagnosis, treatment options, expected outcomes, and potential risks. Patients are encouraged to ask questions and discuss their goals and concerns. A collaborative approach between patient and surgeon builds trust and lays the foundation for a smooth recovery and long-term joint health.
Take the First Step Toward Hip Relief with Academy Orthopedics
If you’re struggling with persistent hip pain or limited mobility, hip arthroscopy may be the solution you need. At Academy Orthopedics, our board-certified orthopedic surgeons are highly trained in minimally invasive hip procedures, offering advanced care tailored to your individual needs. From accurate diagnosis to precise surgical intervention and comprehensive post-operative support, we are committed to helping you restore mobility and return to your daily activities with confidence.
Don’t let hip pain hold you back. Schedule a consultation with Academy Orthopedics today and explore your options for long-term relief through expert-guided hip arthroscopy. Your path to improved function and quality of life starts here.