Hip pain can be incredibly disruptive, making everyday activities like walking, bending, or even sleeping difficult. Whether caused by arthritis, injury, overuse, or age-related wear and tear, hip pain should never be ignored. Fortunately, in many cases, surgery is not the first line of treatment. There are several ways to manage and reduce hip discomfort before considering surgical options.
At NHS Ortho Robotics (a unit of NHS Hospital), we believe in offering comprehensive care from conservative management to advanced surgical intervention. Dr Shubhang Aggarwal, a Senior Orthopaedic Surgeon with over 20 years of experience, leads our expert 5-member orthopaedic team that tailors treatment plans for long-term mobility and well-being.
General Precautions to Avoid Worsening Hip Pain
-
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Excess body weight puts additional pressure on your hip joints, accelerating cartilage wear. By shedding even a small amount of weight, many patients experience noticeable relief in pain and improved joint function.
-
Stay Active – the Right Way
While overuse can aggravate your hip, complete inactivity can stiffen it further. Engage in low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, or yoga that strengthen muscles around the joint without causing additional strain.
-
Strengthening and Stretching
Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in managing hip pain. Strengthening the core and gluteal muscles can improve hip stability. Stretching the hip flexors and hamstrings reduces tension and improves mobility.
Our Udaan Rehabilitation Centre—one of the largest in the region—offers guided therapy programmes under trained physiotherapists that focus on conservative treatment and pain relief.
Home-Based and Medical Pain Management
-
Hot and Cold Therapy
Using ice packs to reduce inflammation and heat packs to relax stiff muscles can provide temporary relief. -
Anti-inflammatory Medications
Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen can reduce swelling and discomfort. However, these should be taken only under medical supervision, especially for long-term use. -
Corticosteroid Injections
If pain persists, doctors may recommend injections that reduce inflammation and provide relief for several months. -
Assistive Devices
Using a cane or walker on the opposite side of the affected hip can relieve pressure and aid balance. -
Activity Modification
Avoid high-impact activities like running or jumping. Instead, focus on activities that do not stress the hip joint.
When Conservative Options Fail
Despite best efforts, some cases of hip pain—particularly those involving advanced osteoarthritis or avascular necrosis—may not respond adequately to conservative management. Persistent pain, reduced range of motion, and poor quality of life are clear signs that it's time to consider surgical options.
But the good news is: modern technology has revolutionised hip surgery.
Minimally Invasive Techniques: A New Era in Hip Replacement
At NHS Ortho Robotics (a unit of NHS Hospital), we specialise in cutting-edge technology that minimises pain, speeds up recovery, and restores function faster than traditional surgeries.
1. Direct Anterior Hip Replacement
Unlike traditional approaches that cut through muscle, this minimally invasive technique preserves major muscle groups. Patients experience:
- Less post-operative pain
- Shorter hospital stays
- Faster return to daily activities
2. Robotic RI Hip Replacement
Using robotic-assisted technology, the RI (Robotic Interface) system ensures exceptional precision. It maps your hip in real-time and aids the surgeon in making exact cuts and placements, tailored to your anatomy.
Under the expert guidance of Dr Shubhang Aggarwal, our robotic hip surgeries are delivering outstanding outcomes. With 20+ years of surgical experience, his leadership, combined with a highly skilled 5-orthopaedic-surgeon team, ensures every patient receives the highest standard of care.
Udaan: The Road to Recovery
A successful surgery is just the beginning. At our Udaan Rehabilitation Centre, patients undergo structured recovery plans designed to regain strength, mobility, and confidence.
- State-of-the-art physiotherapy units
- Hydrotherapy, gait training, and pain management tools
- Personalised recovery plans monitored by experts
Our 15+ years experienced nursing team ensures that every patient is cared for with compassion and competence during the crucial recovery phase.
When Should You Consult a Specialist?
If you’ve been living with chronic hip pain for more than a few months, and it's interfering with your ability to work, walk, or sleep, it’s time to consult an orthopaedic expert. Early intervention can prevent long-term damage and give you a better chance of avoiding major surgery.
Whether you're exploring conservative options or considering robotic-assisted surgery, NHS Ortho Robotics offers the full spectrum of hip care under one roof.
Final Thoughts
Surgery is not the only solution for hip pain—but if needed, today’s minimally invasive and robotic-assisted techniques offer new hope for pain-free, active living. And with an expert like Dr Shubhang Aggarwal and the NHS Ortho Robotics team by your side, you can rest assured you’re in the best hands.
Reclaim your independence this Independence Day—take your first step toward a pain-free life.
