New findings from Edith Cowan University (ECU) suggest that muscle activation issues in individuals with hip osteoarthritis may involve a ‘mind over matter’ phenomenon.
Dr. Myles Murphy, a post-doctoral research fellow at ECU, examined muscle function in individuals suffering from hip osteoarthritis and discovered that these patients struggled to activate their muscles effectively.
“Research has shown that the extent of joint degeneration doesn’t necessarily correlate with the level of pain experienced by someone with arthritis. Actually, stronger muscles can provide more protection for the joint, leading to reduced pain,” explained Dr. Murphy.
“Our findings indicate that individuals with hip osteoarthritis have difficulties activating their muscles efficiently, regardless of their strength,” he stated.
During this study, Dr. Murphy and his team analyzed the brain’s role in individuals with hip arthritis and identified that the brain significantly influences this issue.
“Essentially, people with hip arthritis find it hard to activate their muscles properly because their brain is effectively inhibiting them. We are still uncertain about the reasons for this. However, it appears that the brain is significantly obstructing rehabilitation and inhibiting the muscles that protect the joint,” Dr. Murphy remarked.
“We believe this may be a misguided short-term protective response. Unlike acute injuries, like a twisted ankle or a hurt knee, chronic pain such as osteoarthritis tends to persist for an extended period. Rather than a short-term protective mechanism, the brain’s safeguarding response becomes a troublesome and counterproductive reaction over time,” he continued.
Hip osteoarthritis is commonly found in people over 45 years of age and is notably more common in women. Those with a history of joint injuries from sports or accidents, as well as individuals with joint irregularities like developmental dysplasia of the hip, have a higher likelihood of developing hip osteoarthritis.
Individuals with hip arthritis often exhibit different walking patterns compared to those without the condition and may face challenges with daily tasks, such as rising from a chair or getting in and out of a vehicle.
“The effect on their daily lives represents the greatest burden of osteoarthritis. It also leads to significant work absenteeism and incurs substantial economic costs,” Dr. Murphy noted.
“In our study group, about 25% experienced disability regarding normal activities, in contrast to 0% in our healthy control group.”
Dr. Murphy is exploring innovative strategies to address this involuntary muscle inhibition to successfully rehabilitate patients.
For now, individuals living with hip osteoarthritis are encouraged to engage in strength training and collaborate with a certified physiotherapist or exercise physiologist.
“It will require considerable effort to strengthen those muscles, but it is achievable. There are no instant solutions. Maintaining strength is something individuals with hip osteoarthritis must continuously work on,” he advised.
