Are there hip treatments other than surgery?

Treatments for osteoarthritis of the hip other than surgery include pain management, lifestyle changes, hip stretches and exercise, states Healthline. Surgery is a last-resort option when other treatments fail for patients who have severe, chronic hip pain and limited mobility.

Over-the-counter pain medications can be effective for patients who have mild symptoms of osteoarthritis, notes Healthline. Those with moderate-to-severe pain may require prescription-strength pain medication, while others may need corticosteroid injections if oral medications are ineffective. Simple lifestyle changes, such as rest, diet, exercise and compresses, can relieve pain as well. Hip stretches, which include knee pulls, sitting stretches and extending leg balances, can improve flexibility and range of motion.