Anatomy of the Healthy Hip
The hip joint forms where the top of the thighbone (femur) meets the socket of the pelvic bone. The top of the femur is ball-shaped and fits snugly in the socket.
The bones of the hip joint are covered by cartilage that protects the bones while allowing easy motion. Surrounding the hip joint is the synovial lining, which produces a lubricant. Tough fibers, called ligaments, connect the bones of the joint and hold them in place, while adding strength and elasticity for movement. Muscles and tendons also play an important role in keeping the hip joint stable.
As with other body parts, the hip can become the victim of degenerative disease, arthristis and trauma, some of which can only be remedied by surgery. The most common conditions include
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