Understanding Hip Osteoarthritis: What It Is and When Surgery May Be Needed

Hip pain can interfere with even the simplest daily activities, from walking around the block to getting a good night’s sleep. One of the most common causes of chronic hip pain is osteoarthritis—a degenerative joint condition that can progress over time. At Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center (POSMC), our fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons specialize in diagnosing and treating hip osteoarthritis, offering both conservative treatments and advanced surgical solutions when necessary.

What Is Hip Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is often referred to as “wear-and-tear arthritis.” It occurs when the smooth cartilage that cushions the hip joint begins to break down. Without that protective layer, the bones of the hip rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

Common signs of hip osteoarthritis include:

• Persistent hip or groin pain that worsens with activity

• Stiffness, especially after periods of rest

• Decreased range of motion

• Difficulty with everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or putting on shoes

While hip osteoarthritis is most common in adults over 50, it can also affect younger patients, particularly those with a history of hip injury or genetic predisposition.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

In the early stages of osteoarthritis, many patients find relief with non-surgical treatments. At POSMC, our specialists may recommend:

• Anti-inflammatory medications

• Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles

• Lifestyle modifications, such as weight management and low-impact exercise

• Corticosteroid or regenerative medicine injections for temporary pain relief

These treatments can often slow the progression of arthritis and improve quality of life.

When Does Hip Osteoarthritis Require Surgery?

If conservative treatments no longer provide relief and hip pain begins to severely impact your daily activities, surgery may be the best option. Surgery is typically considered when:

• Pain persists despite medications and injections

• Mobility is significantly limited

• X-rays or imaging show advanced joint damage

• Daily tasks like walking, standing, or sleeping are disrupted

The most common surgical solution is total hip replacement (hip arthroplasty). During this procedure, the damaged bone and cartilage are replaced with a prosthetic joint designed to restore movement and reduce pain. Thanks to modern techniques and advanced implants, hip replacement surgery has a high success rate and can provide long-lasting results.

Expert Hip Surgery Care in Plano, TX

At Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center, our team has extensive experience performing hip replacement and other hip surgeries. We combine state-of-the-art technology with personalized care to ensure the best possible outcome for each patient. From diagnosis through recovery, our goal is to help you return to the activities you enjoy with less pain and greater mobility.

Ready to take the next step?
If you are experiencing ongoing hip pain that may be related to osteoarthritis, contact Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center today to schedule a consultation with one of our hip specialists.

Call us or visit our Hip Surgery page