Ultrasound and fluoroscopy are unnecessary for injections into the arthritic hip

Purpose: We investigated the effectiveness of non-image-guided hip injections. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 369 intra-articular hip injections in 331 patients using anatomical landmarks. The percentage and duration of pain relief was documented. Hip injections were grouped in responders and nonresponders (50 % maximum pain relief as a cut off). Results: In 82% (n = 304) of hip injections, patients responded positively and experienced >50 % pain relief. Nonresponders had a significantly higher body mass index (p = 0.007). Conclusions: Hip injections using anatomical landmarks are an effective treatment option for patients with osteoarthritis of the hip.