The Human Hip

The human hip is a ball-and-socket joint designed to allow for a wide range of motion.  The hip is a complex joint which requires for normal function healthy soft tissue including ligaments, tendons, muscles, nerves, and blood vessels.  The most prominent components of the hip, and the most susceptible to degenerative disease, are the “hipbones” and the joint.

The “hipbones” are the femur, commonly known as the thighbone, and the pelvis.  On top of the femur is the femoral head.  The femoral head is shaped like a ball and fits into a round socket, or “cup,” on the side of the pelvis.  This socket, or “cup,” is called the acetabulum.  Articular cartilage covers the surface of the femoral head and the acetabulum and is about one-quarter of an inch thick in the hip joint.  This cartilage has a rubbery consistency and is slippery, allowing the surface of the femoral head to slide smoothly and easily within the joint formed in the acetabulum.  This design allows for the smooth, wide range of motion needed for daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, bending and sitting.

If you have had a hip replacement and the artificial hip is defective – call us at 800-862-1260.