Prevalence and societal burden of hip osteoarthritis

Abstract

Between 1996-1998 and 2004-2006, the number of individuals reporting a musculoskeletal disease increased by nearly 14 million from the 76 million reported in 1996 [1]. Of the major subgroups of musculoskeletal diseases, arthritis and joint painhave the highest occurrence, refl ecting the overall aging population [1]. Arthritis is the most common cause of severe long-term pain and physical disability, and canalso affect the psychosocial status of affl icted people as well as their families andcareers [2]. From 2007 to 2009 data show that one in nine, or 21 million U.S. adults, had arthritis-attributable activity limitations [3]. OA is the most common type of arthritis and frequently affects the hip. OA of the hips results in pain and stiffness and often leads to signifi cant problems with mobility and disability requiring expensive total hip replacement [4]. OA causes pain and contributes to diminished function refl ected in reduced muscle strength, range of motion, and joint instability. Patient-reported outcomes measures have described OA having a major impact on activities of daily living, leading to severe limitations in participation in physical activity, and a decreased quality of life for patients [5].