Osteoarthritis of the hip conservative treatment with type A botulinum toxin.

[INTRODUCTION] Osteoarthritis (OA) of the hip is a low-grade inflammatory disease of multiple etiology that has a limited conservative management and insufficiently explored. The application of botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) produces in the applied muscle a temporary, delimitable and reversible flaccid paralysis, which applied in a strategic way achieves to reduce mechanical stress and pain.

[OBJECTIVE] To evaluate the effect on pain perception, functionality and rigidity and changes in flexibility, internal and external rotation, before and 90 days after the application of BoNT-A.

[METHODS] Clinical, experimental, longitudinal, open study, with a total of 35 patients and 45 hips treated. BoNT-A of 500 U was applied in iliac, adductor brevis and longus muscles.

[RESULTS] The Wilcoxon test was used to compare the evaluation scores on days 0-90, observing the decrease in referred pain (p < 0.0001), rigidity (p < 0.002), improved perceived function (p < 0.001) and mobility arcs: flexion, internal and external rotation (p < 0.0001).

[CONCLUSIONS] The treatment with BoNT-A provides a conservative and safe option for the management of symptoms and physical restraint caused by hip OA.