Lonkka

Lonkka is the Finnish term for the hip joint, the articulation between the pelvis and the thigh. In human anatomy, the hip joint is a ball-and-socket synovial joint formed by the femoral head and the acetabulum of the pelvis. It is stabilized by a strong fibrous capsule and ligaments, including the iliofemoral, pubofemoral, and ischiofemoral ligaments, as well as the circular zona orbicularis. The acetabular labrum enhances joint depth and stability by extending the socket and helping to seal the joint. The joint surfaces are covered with articular cartilage to enable smooth movement and distribute loads during standing, walking, and running.

Biomechanically, the hip supports body weight and enables a wide range of motion. Primary movements include flexion and extension, abduction and adduction, internal and external rotation, and some degree of circumduction. Muscles surrounding the hip, such as the gluteals, hip flexors, abductors, adductors, and deep rotators, contribute to stability and movement.

Common conditions affecting the lonkka include hip osteoarthritis, hip fractures (particularly in older adults), avascular necrosis of the femoral head, and labral tears. Developmental dysplasia of the hip can present in infants and children. Other issues include bursitis and tendinopathy around the hip region. Diagnosis typically combines physical examination with imaging, starting with X-rays and often using MRI for soft-tissue assessment. Treatment ranges from conservative approaches—physical therapy, pain management, and activity modification—to surgical options such as hip replacement (total hip arthroplasty), hip resurfacing, osteotomy, or hip arthroscopy for certain intra-articular problems.