Osteoarthritis is the most common form of chronic arthritis and the hip is the second most commonly affected joint in the body. The condition affects approximately 1.4 million Australians, or approximately 7.3% of the population. The prevalence of osteoarthritis increases with age. Osteoarthritis most commonly develops between the ages of 45 to 90 years. Less commonly osteoarthritis occurs under the age of 45 years of age and may well be associated with an underlying risk factor for the development of premature arthritis. The pain and disability associated with osteoarthritis affects approximately 10% of men and 18% of women over 60 years of age. The incidence and prevalence of osteoarthritis will continue to rise as the population ages.