Living With Arthritis
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Hip arthritis treatment

UK first-line care for hip osteoarthritis is exercise, weight support where needed, and simple pain relief — not an early rush to replacement. Surgery is considered when sleep, walking and daily tasks stay badly limited after months of conservative care.

Treatment approaches

Exercise and physiotherapy

Glute and hip-abductor strength plus low-impact cardio are core NICE-aligned treatment for everyone with hip OA.

Weight management

The hip takes roughly three times body weight when walking, so even modest weight loss can cut load and pain.

Pain relief

Paracetamol, topical NSAIDs, and short courses of oral NSAIDs for flares if safe for you.

Walking aids

A stick in the opposite hand, or a pole, can offload a painful hip on longer walks.

Steroid injection

Sometimes used for a severe flare while rehabilitation continues — not a permanent fix.

Hip replacement

Considered when pain disturbs sleep, limits daily life, and 3–6 months of conservative care has not been enough.

Where to go next

  • What is osteoarthritis? — How to recognise osteoarthritis symptoms, when to see a GP, NICE-aligned treatment, exercises and diet. Plain-English help written for patients.
  • What is rheumatoid arthritis? — Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in the UK: early symptoms, GP referral, DMARDs, flares and self-care — a plain-English guide for patients.
  • What is psoriatic arthritis? — UK guide to psoriatic arthritis: the link between psoriasis and joint inflammation, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and self-care.
  • What is gout? — UK guide to gout: uric acid crystals, sudden severe joint pain, allopurinol treatment after repeat attacks, diet and alcohol changes.
  • What is ankylosing spondylitis? — UK guide to ankylosing spondylitis: inflammatory back pain, morning stiffness, diagnosis, daily exercise, physio and biologic treatment.
  • What is juvenile arthritis? — UK guide to juvenile idiopathic arthritis: signs in children under 16, diagnosis, paediatric rheumatology care and DMARD treatment.
  • What is fibromyalgia? — UK guide to fibromyalgia: widespread pain, fatigue, fibro fog and sleep problems, plus NICE-recommended exercise, CBT and pacing.
  • What is lupus? — UK guide to lupus (SLE): joint pain, butterfly rash, fatigue and sun sensitivity, plus hydroxychloroquine treatment and self-care.

This is general information, not a substitute for personalised medical advice.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best treatment for hip arthritis in the UK?

UK treatment for hip arthritis follows NICE guidance and usually combines self-management (exercise, weight control, pacing), pain relief, and — where needed — specialist medication or therapy. There is no single "best" option; the right plan depends on the type, severity and joints involved.

Can hip arthritis be cured?

Most forms of hip oa cannot be cured, but they can be very effectively managed. With the right combination of exercise, medication, and lifestyle support, many people maintain a full and active life.

What painkillers help hip arthritis?

Common options include paracetamol, topical or oral NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen) and, for inflammatory types, prescription medication such as DMARDs or biologics. Always take pain relief at the lowest effective dose and ask your GP or pharmacist about interactions.

Do I need a referral to see a rheumatologist for hip oa?

Yes — in the UK, you'll usually need a referral from your GP to access UK healthcare rheumatology services. If your GP suspects an inflammatory arthritis, NICE recommends urgent referral so that treatment can start early.

Are there free UK healthcare resources for hip arthritis treatment?

Yes. UK healthcare physiotherapy, occupational therapy, pain clinics and self-management programmes are available — many free at the point of use. Ask your GP or check the UK healthcare system website for services in your area.