Condition
Hip Arthritis
Hip osteoarthritis is the gradual loss of the smooth cartilage lining the ball-and-socket joint. It typically causes groin pain, stiffness and a shrinking walking distance, but not everyone with hip arthritis needs surgery.
Recognising hip arthritis
Pain is usually felt in the groin or the front of the thigh, and sometimes in the buttock or knee. Early signs include stiffness after sitting, difficulty putting on socks and shoes, and pain that builds with walking. X-rays confirm the diagnosis and show how advanced the wear is, though symptoms, not x-rays, guide treatment.
Watch: what is hip osteoarthritis?
In this short video from his Doctify profile, Paddy Subramanian explains what hip osteoarthritis is, why it causes pain and stiffness, and how it is diagnosed and treated.
Treatment without surgery
Many patients manage well for years with a combination of activity modification, targeted physiotherapy, weight management and simple analgesia. Injections can help settle a painful flare or clarify the diagnosis. Paddy Subramanian will always discuss these options first, and a significant proportion of patients leave with a non-surgical plan.
When replacement becomes the right choice
When pain disturbs sleep, limits independence or stops the activities that matter to you despite non-surgical treatment, total hip replacement is a highly reliable operation with excellent long-term results. The decision is made together, based on your symptoms, priorities and circumstances, never on an x-ray alone.
Read more before you decide
- Hip Replacement Recovery GuideWhat to expect week by week after a hip replacement, from the day of surgery to driving and work.
- Hip Replacement Cost GuideWhat a private hip replacement costs and what the package covers.
- How Long Does a Hip or Knee Replacement Last?What the latest registry evidence says about how long a replacement lasts.
Dr Subramanian has been approachable, professional and allowed me to consider what is a major surgery with confidence. All my questions were answered and I felt involved in the decision making. I am now back on my feet with a neat scar. I would recommend him highly to anyone.
Verified Patient
Hip Replacement, Doctify (August 2026)
Patient Testimonials
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Living with hip or knee pain does not have to be permanent. Book a consultation and find out exactly what is wrong, what your options are, and what life could look like without the pain.