Living well with hip osteoarthritis: Your guide to treatment and more
Hip osteoarthritis is a common condition, but it doesn’t have to mean the end of your mobility or an acceptance of daily pain. With the right approach, many people continue to lead active fulfilling lives, sometimes without the need for hip surgery.
This guide will take you through what hip osteoarthritis is, what causes it, and the symptoms to look out for. We will also explore the range of treatment options available, from lifestyle adjustments and targeted exercise to medical therapies, so you can feel informed and empowered to take control of your hip health.
What is hip osteoarthritis?
Hip osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition where the cartilage that cushions the hip joint gradually wears away. This can cause the bones to rub against each other, leading to pain, stiffness, reduced mobility, and sometimes swelling.
Over time and without treatment, the joint may become deformed, and everyday activities such as walking, bending, or getting in and out of a chair can become more difficult. It is a progressive condition, meaning symptoms often worsen with time, although the rate of progression varies from person to person.
There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but there are many interventions that can help prevent disease progression, as well as pain management strategies, lifestyle changes, and other non-surgical and surgical treatment options.
Who is affected by hip osteoarthritis?
Hip osteoarthritis can affect anyone, but it is more common in older adults, particularly those over 50. Factors such as age, genetics, previous hip injuries, obesity and certain occupations or sports that put repeated stress on the hips can increase the risk.
Women tend to be affected slightly more often than men, and people with a family history of osteoarthritis may be more likely to develop it.
While it is often linked to ageing, younger people can also be affected, especially if they have underlying joint problems or a history of hip trauma.
Symptoms of hip osteoarthritis
What does hip osteoarthritis feel like? It can vary between individuals, depending on factors such as how far the disease has progressed; the individual’s weight, age and activity levels; and whether prior injuries or surgeries have taken place in or near the hip.
Those with hip osteoarthritis may experience some or all of the following symptoms:
- Pain in or around the hip, which can get worse with activity
- Stiffness
- Reduced range of motion
- Clicking or grating sensation (known as crepitus)
- Weakness in the muscles around the hip, especially the buttocks
If you only have one or two of these symptoms, or if they are mild, you may be in the early stages of osteoarthritis. Despite this, you should not wait to see a medical professional – the earlier your symptoms are diagnosed, the more likely it is that your treatment can slow or prevent disease progression.
How hip osteoarthritis is diagnosed: X-rays, MRI, and clinical assessment
Diagnosing hip osteoarthritis involves a combination of medical history, a physical examination and imaging tests. Your consultant will ask about your symptoms, lifestyle and any previous hip injuries. They will also assess your range of motion, muscle strength and joint stability during a clinical examination.
X-rays are commonly used to check for changes in joint space, bone shape and the presence of bony growths (osteophytes). In some cases, an MRI scan can provide more detailed images of cartilage, soft tissue and early joint changes that might not appear on an X-ray.
The aim of diagnosis is not only to confirm the condition, but also to guide a personalised treatment plan that helps you stay active and manage symptoms such as pain effectively, so you can continue to enjoy activities.
Understanding your hip osteoarthritis stage and severity
Hip osteoarthritis is typically graded in stages, from mild to severe, based on symptoms and imaging results.
In the early stages
Many patients experience only occasional discomfort or stiffness, which can often be managed with simple lifestyle adjustments and targeted exercises.
As the condition progresses
Symptoms may become more noticeable, but that does not necessarily mean a rapid decline in mobility.
Understanding your stage helps you and your healthcare team decide on the most effective strategies, whether that’s physiotherapy, weight management, medication or joint-friendly activities like swimming or cycling. Even in later stages, many people maintain independence and an active lifestyle without needing surgery, thanks to modern non-surgical treatments and tailored rehabilitation programmes.
Non-surgical treatment options for hip osteoarthritis
Conservative treatments focus on easing pain, improving mobility and slowing the progression of joint changes, helping you stay active and independent for as long as possible.
Physical therapy and exercise
Targeted physiotherapy is often one of the first recommendations for managing hip osteoarthritis. Strengthening the muscles around the hip provides better joint support, while stretching helps maintain flexibility and range of motion.
Low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling and walking are ideal for keeping the joint moving without putting excessive strain on it. A physiotherapist can also teach you specific movements to reduce discomfort during everyday activities.
Medications and joint injections
Over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol and anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) can help manage mild to moderate symptoms. If pain persists, your consultant may suggest corticosteroid or viscosupplementation injections directly into the joint to provide longer-lasting relief. These injections can help improve pain and make physical therapy or exercise more comfortable and effective.
Lifestyle modifications that can help slow progression
Small daily changes can have a big impact on your hip health. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on the joint, while pacing yourself during activities helps avoid overuse.
Using supportive footwear, ergonomic seating and walking aids when needed can also make a difference. Making adjustments to how your move (such as bending from the knees instead of the waist) can help protect the hip and keep you mobile for years to come.
Surgical treatment options for hip osteoarthritis
Surgery can be considered when hip osteoarthritis is impacting daily life and conservative treatment paths have not been successful. Advances in surgical techniques mean many procedures are now less invasive, with shorter recovery times and improved outcomes. Mr Jerome Davidson is a consultant orthopaedic hip surgeon who specialises in minimally invasive techniques.
There are several different surgical options for hip osteoarthritis. These are:
- Total hip replacement (arthroplasty): This is the most common surgical treatment for advanced hip osteoarthritis. It involves replacing the damaged joint surfaces with artificial components. Mr Davidson explains: “While it’s a major procedure, it is highly effective at relieving pain and restoring mobility. It can now be performed using minimally invasive techniques. It is typically recommended for people with severe joint damage who find daily activities increasingly difficult.”
- Hip resurfacing: Hip resurfacing preserves more of the natural bone compared to a total replacement. Instead of removing the entire ball of the hip joint, the surgeon reshapes it and covers it with an implant with a smooth outer surface, while also placing a corresponding implant in the socket. This procedure is a form of hip replacement and is often suited to younger, more active patients with strong bone quality.
How do I know which treatment is right for me?
If you have hip osteoarthritis and you aren’t sure which treatment route is appropriate for you, it’s best to speak to a specialist.
Mr Jerome Davidson is a consultant and orthopaedic surgeon specialising in minimally invasive hip surgery, primary and revision hip replacements. He works closely with a trusted network of expert professionals, and will be able to recommend the most appropriate course of action based on your condition and needs, or refer you to another specialist if necessary.
To book a consultation with Mr Jerome Davidson, please call 020 8168 0111 or book online.