Radiographic change is common in new presenters in primary care with hip pain

Objective. To determine the prevalence of radiographic osteoarthritis in subjects with hip pain newly presenting to primary care. Methods. The study was cross-sectional in design, set in 35 general practices across the UK. It included 195 men and women aged 40 yr and over (median 63 yr) presenting with a new episode of hip pain. Hip radiographs were scored for minimum joint space (MJS) and overall-Croft's modification of the Kellgren and Lawrence (Croft)-grade of osteoarthritis. Results. In all, definite evidence of radiographic change in the painful joint was common: Croft grade greater than or equal to 2 in 44%, greater than or equal to 3 in 34%. MJS of 2.5 mm or less was seen in 30% of whom half were below 1.5 mm. There were no significant gender differences in radiographic severity. Conclusions. Radiographic change is common in patients newly presenting with hip pain and many already have advanced disease.