What Does a Hip Do?

The hip joint is a complex ball-and-socket joint that supports the weight of the body and is responsible for movement of the upper leg. It consists of two main parts: a ball (femoral head) at the top of the thighbone (femur) that fits into a rounded socket (acetabulum), sometimes referred to as the cup, in the pelvis. Bands of tissue, called ligaments, hold the joint together and provide stability. The structure of the hip joint enables the large range of motion needed for daily activities like walking, squatting, and climbing stairs.

Changes, damages or wear to any of the following parts of the hip may lead to physical limitations:

  • Bone substance
  • Muscles and tendons
  • Cartilage
  • Vascular blood circulation