MAY 2010 NEWSLETTER Sinus Self Care Archives Hip Dysfunction, Degenerative Joint Disease (DJG), Conservative Management The hip itself is a very sturdy joint, protected by large buttock muscles, and covered by strong ligaments. It is however vulnerable to groin pulls. Although the hip is a relatively simple joint, it bears the burden of bearing significant weight on fairly small cartilaginous surfaces. Cartilage on the end of the thigh bone should make even continuous contact with the cartilage of the socket. (See ill. 1) When these two surfaces are properly aligned or "well seated", the load is distributed evenly and friction minimized. Cartilage can wear unevenly with high-pressure spots when the hip is not well seated or if there is asymmetrical weight bearing through the legs. (See ill. 2) Carrying an excess load with heavy activity can lead to early wear of the joint surfaces as well. Causes of Hip Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD) Simple Overuse: When there is excess weight borne on one leg, the cartilage of that hip wears away more quickly. Have you ever seen workmen who carry heavy buckets and equipment walk with a limp? Imagine yourself holding a heavy bucket with your strong hand. You would either lean way over to the other side if it was very heavy or take the full weight directly over your strong hand side. The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Movementwise makes no representation or warranty regarding the accuracy, reliability, completeness, currentness, or timeliness of the content, text or graphics. Links to other sites are provided for information only - they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. Copyright 2006