Non-Surgical Treatments 

Consider these non-surgical options for managing and treating hip joint pain before electing to have surgery.

At Orthopedics International, we believe in exploring all options before recommending surgery. Several non-operative treatments are available, including:

Lifestyle modification

Most physicians try this alternative to hip replacement surgery first. Lifestyle modification may include weight loss, modifying your exercise to no- or low-impact, and other changes in your daily routine to reduce stress on your hips.

Exercise and physical therapy

Riding a stationary bike, light weightlifting, yoga and walking can strengthen your leg muscles, build flexibility and reduce your pain. 

Anti-inflammatory medications

Pain from hip arthritis is caused by inflammation in the hip as the bones rub against each other due to eroded cartilage. A physician may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications to decrease swelling in the hip joint. New medications called Cox-2 inhibitors may also temporarily reduce inflammation and pain.  

Corticosteroid injections

For some patients, we offer injections of a synthetic “cortisone” medication into a painful hip. This can reduce pain for several weeks. 

While medications and supplements can be helpful in reducing inflammation and pain, at a certain point you will need to decide whether or not to seek hip replacement surgery.