Hip pain what is your go to for pain relief?

Hi. I've also 'done the double' with RA and OA. Before my joints were replaced I always found doing the exercises helped to keep things as easy as possible. My husband has, in the last 2 1/2 years, had both hips replaced and, once he couldn't play golf or go for long walks, bought an exercise bike. He hates it and hasn't used it since but it really helped before the ops. He started doing about 3 minutes a time and got up to 2-3 20 minute sessions a day.

I hope your scan will be helpful. It sounds to me a little like the sciatica I once had. The physio gave me exercises and said, if caught early, they would get rid of it completely and they did.

For pain relief, especially at night, I've always ensured I had some left to talk just before bed but, if it's really bad, your GP could prescribe more than NSAIDS or paracetamol/co-codamol.

I’m waiting for a hip replacement I just bough a eletric heat pad it has helped me the microwave one I had to heat it all the time which when ur in agony u don’t want to do .

Can’t get this even privately because of cost (upwards of £1k). Have OSteoarthris in my lower back for over 15 years. Also osteoporosis for over 10 years. Cannot use any over the counter meds for various reasons. Cope with TRAMADOL 50mg x 4 per day and back up with Panadol as and when. Tried getting an injection to ease pain as it helped with shoulder pain. Have to be careful which steroid used. With COVID on the up again, absolutely pointless trying the NHS. Caring for husband (we are both in our 80s). Makes life very, very difficult.

For hip pain relief, there are several options you can try:

1. Over-the-counter pain relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
2. Topical treatments: Creams, gels, or patches containing ingredients like menthol, capsaicin, or lidocaine can provide localized relief when applied directly to the painful area.
3. Heat and cold therapy: Applying heat packs or taking warm baths can help relax muscles and ease stiffness, while cold packs can reduce inflammation and numb the area.
4. Gentle stretching and exercise: Low-impact activities like swimming, yoga, or tai chi can improve flexibility and strength in the hip muscles, reducing pain over time.
5. Physical therapy: A physical therapist can provide targeted exercises and techniques to strengthen muscles, improve posture, and alleviate hip pain.
6. Rest and elevation: Giving your hip adequate rest and elevating it when possible can help reduce swelling and promote healing.
7. Supportive devices: Using a cane, walker, or hip brace can help alleviate pressure on the hip joint and improve mobility.

It's important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause of your hip pain and develop a personalized treatment plan.

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Sorry to hear about your pain but glad you have some answers following your scan.

I didn’t find pain killers worked much for me. I’ve tended to stick with paracetamol in the main. I did try NAIDs but they messed up my potassium levels so I stopped them pretty swiftly.

Exercise, including physio guided support and the ‘escape pain’ programme were what kept me going up until my THR 2 weeks ago today. I’ll do a separate update but I think together they stood me in good stead in terms of pre op pain management and post op recovery.

I wish you well