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Hip Anatomy
To help you fully
understand the process of total hip replacement, it may be useful to
have an understanding of what a hip is and how it works.
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Hip image courtesy of
Human-Anatomy.net |
Bones
The hip is actually
a ball and socket joint, uniting two separate bones - the femur
(thigh bone) with the pelvis. The pelvis features two cup-shaped
depressions called the acetabulum (socket), one on either side of
the body. The thigh bone is the longest bone in the body and
connects to the pelvis at the hip joint. The head of the thigh
bone, shaped like a ball, fits tightly into the socket, forming
the ball and socket joint of the hip, allowing the leg to move
forward and backward and side to side, and rotate right and left.
Cartilage
The socket is lined with cartilage, which cushions the
bones during weight-bearing activities and allows the joint to
rotate smoothly and freely in all planes of movement with minimal
friction. |
Ligaments
The
complex system of ligaments that connects the thigh bone to the pelvis
is essential for stability, keeping the hip from moving outside of its
normal planes of movement.
Muscles
The muscles of the hip joint have dual responsibilities,
working synergistically to provide the power for the hip to move in
all directions, as well as to stabilize the entire lower extremity
during weight-bearing activities.
A healthy hip will allow the leg to move
freely within its range of motion, while supporting the upper body and
absorbing the impact that accompanies activities like running and
jumping.
Click here for
information on arthritis of the hip
Click here for
information on treatment options for arthritis of the hip |
