Osteoporosis is a condition characterised by reduced bone density, due to a loss of bone minerals, which can lead to an increased risk of fractures and bony injury. A person with osteoporosis may have no symptoms, until an injury occurs. If you have risk factors, which may include being over the age of 50, having a family history of osteoporosis, a history of low intake of calcium, and/or vitamin D, certain medical conditions, or adverse lifestyle factors such as smoking, or low physical activity levels, it is worthwhile seeing your doctor.

Osteoporosis in the hip can weaken the structure of the hip joint putting a person at greater risk of injury from trauma and stress to that joint. Hip fractures are one of the most common fractures associated with osteoporosis and the consequences can be severe.

Reducing modifiable risk factors such as diet, quitting smoking and participating in appropriate exercises to help prevent deterioration of bone density and increase your lower limb strength and balance to reduce falls in a great start. Best advice is to ask your doctor or physiotherapist.

Synovitis of the hip:

Synovitis, or irritable hip, is the inflammation of the inner lining of the hip joint, the synovium. This condition is characterised by acute hip pain, reduced comfort in weight bearing, and stiffness and is often associated with other injuries in the hip such as labral tears, impingement or arthritis. As pain is likely to be present, prior to the diagnosis of synovitis, a thorough assessment of the cause of hip synovitis should be made, which will include determination of any contributing hip pathology. Appropriate treatment such as physiotherapy, rehabilitation exercises or rest can then be undertaken.

A specific type of this condition called Transient Synovitis, which presents as a sudden onset of hip pain, possibly caused by an infection or virus, usually affects children and typically without an associated injury. Any presentation of this type should always be investigated thoroughly.

Treatment will be determined by the cause of the synovitis, but may include rest, anti-inflammatories, and appropriate activity modification and exercises. See your GP or physio if you are experiencing hip pain.