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Home > Specialties > Hip > About the Hip

How Does the Hip Work?
 
The hip is a ball and socket joint that acts much like a ball bearing, allowing you to turn in different directions while supporting the body. At the upper end of your thigh bone (or femur) is a ball which fits into a socket. Cartilage (a layer of smooth soft tissue) covers the ball and lines the socket, and allows the ball to move easily in the socket. You are given only one coating of this cartilage in your lifetime.

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