A normal hip joint is built to carry the weight of the body through each step. Cartilage lining the femoral head and the acetabulum allows for near frictionless motion in the joint. However in CHD, the forces of weight bearing are concentrated in an abnormal fashion due to the altered anatomy. The cartilage of the head wears away over time and arthritis will develop. People with CHD will develop arthritis at an earlier age.
Pain relief is the most common reason people want a hip replacement.
Conservative management is attempted before proceeding to surgery. Several different anti-inflammatory medications should be tried. Weight reduction, physical therapy, and walking assist devices may relieve symptoms temporary but more definitive treatment is eventually needed. Many patients with significant CHD have an operation as a child to help correct or salvage the hip alignment. They may have relief for an extended period of time but eventually the pain returns.