There are a number of non-surgical lifestyle modifications that your physician may prescribe to control the symptoms of arthritis.

Weight reduction is one way to control the symptoms of hip arthritis; simply losing weight reduces the amount of stress on your weight-bearing joints, including hips, knees, spine and feet. Any heavy lifting or excessive standing and walking should be avoided. Also, using assistive devices such as canes, crutches or walkers can help decrease stress on your painful hip.

Exercise and physical therapy

To improve the strength and flexibility of your hip and lower extremity muscles, exercise and physical therapy may be prescribed. Your exercise program can include stretching exercises, stationary biking, walking and light weight training. Aquatic exercises are especially effective for arthritis treatment since they allow mild resistance while removing the weight-bearing stresses.