Hip Pain: Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Hip pain can limit walking, exercise and daily activities. As a major weight-bearing joint, the hip can be affected by several conditions with different patterns of progression. Some patients seek a second opinion after hip replacement has been suggested. Hip and knee mechanics are linked, and assessment may also include the knee.
At CellOrtho Marbella, patients with hip pain receive a specialist orthopaedic assessment, and the options, both surgical and non-surgical, are explained individually. Some patients come for a second opinion after surgery has been suggested.
Hip Osteoarthritis
Degenerative Joint Disease
A common cause of chronic hip pain, hip osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage lining the hip joint gradually breaks down. This leads to stiffness, grinding sensations, and increasing difficulty walking or climbing stairs. Treatment depends on the cause and severity and may include physiotherapy, activity modification, medication or injections. PRP has been studied for hip osteoarthritis; the evidence is mixed. Suitability is decided after assessment.
Labral Tears
Acetabular Labrum Injury
Tears in the labrum - the ring of cartilage surrounding the hip socket - can cause deep groin pain, a clicking or catching sensation, and hip instability. They may result from repetitive movements, structural abnormalities or trauma. Treatment depends on the cause and severity and may include physiotherapy, activity modification, medication or injections. PRP has been studied for hip labral tears; the evidence is limited. Suitability is decided after assessment.
Hip Bursitis
Trochanteric Bursitis
Trochanteric bursitis involves inflammation of the bursa on the outside of the hip, causing sharp, burning pain that may radiate down the outer thigh. It is particularly common in runners, cyclists and those who stand for extended periods. Treatment depends on the cause and severity and may include physiotherapy, activity modification, medication or injections. PRP has been studied for isolated trochanteric bursitis; the evidence is limited. Suitability is decided after assessment.
Tendinopathy
Gluteal & Hip Flexor Tendinopathy
Chronic degeneration of the gluteal or hip flexor tendons causes persistent pain and weakness, particularly during walking, climbing stairs or lying on the affected side. Treatment depends on the cause and severity and may include physiotherapy, activity modification, medication or injections. PRP has been studied for gluteal tendinopathy, which differs from isolated bursitis; the evidence is still developing. Suitability is decided after assessment.
Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)
Hip Impingement
FAI occurs when abnormal bone growth on the femoral head or acetabulum causes the bones to rub against each other during movement, leading to pain, stiffness and progressive cartilage damage. Treatment depends on the cause and severity and may include physiotherapy, activity modification, medication or injections. PRP has been studied for FAI; the evidence is limited and injections do not correct the underlying bone shape. Suitability is decided after assessment.
Sacroiliac Joint Inflammation
SI Joint Pain
Inflammation of the sacroiliac joint - where the spine meets the pelvis - can closely mimic hip pain and cause discomfort in the lower back, buttocks and outer thigh. SI joint pain is often misdiagnosed or undertreated. Treatment depends on the cause and severity and may include physiotherapy, activity modification, medication or injections. PRP has been studied for SI joint pain; evidence of superiority over cortisone injections is not established. Suitability is decided after assessment.
Alternatives to Hip Replacement Surgery
Patients often ask about alternatives before deciding on hip replacement. Options depend on the degree of joint degeneration, symptoms and personal goals, as well as medical history and previous treatment. For some patients, surgery is the appropriate option. A specialist assessment or second opinion explains which choices are realistic for the individual case.
PRP therapy may be discussed for some hip conditions after assessment, with an explanation of the available evidence, uncertainties and potential risks. PRP is not a proven way to prevent surgery and is not a substitute for surgery when surgery is indicated.
A consultation with Dr. Arvin Yarollahi considers the degree of hip joint degeneration, general health, symptoms and treatment goals. Imaging and previous treatment records may inform the discussion. The assessment explains which options may be appropriate, including a surgical opinion when indicated, rather than assuming that a non-surgical approach suits everyone.
Hip Pain Treatment at CellOrtho Marbella
CellOrtho assesses patients with hip pain in Nueva Andalucía, Marbella. We see patients from the UK, Scandinavia, Germany, Ireland and the Netherlands who want a specialist assessment and second opinion. The consultation considers the diagnosis, previous care and individual goals before any treatment decision.
All treatments are performed by Dr. Arvin Yarollahi, a specialist in orthopaedic surgery and traumatology, with additional training in sports medicine and a clinical interest in regenerative medicine, licensed in Sweden, the United Kingdom and Spain. Each patient is assessed individually, and the doctor explains the treatment options based on a thorough medical assessment of their condition.
We offer a free video consultation so you can discuss your hip condition with our medical team before committing to travel or treatment.
Options That May Be Discussed
After assessment, the doctor explains the options considered appropriate for your situation. Depending on the diagnosis, these may include:
Physiotherapy and exercise-based rehabilitation
An individually planned programme based on the diagnosis, movement assessment and activity goals, with partner providers where appropriate.
Pain medication and anti-inflammatory medication
Medication is discussed alongside medical history and potential risks. Weight management and activity modification may also be discussed.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)
A preparation made from a small sample of your own blood. It may be considered for some conditions after assessment; the evidence differs between conditions.
Learn moreReferral for a surgical opinion where surgery is indicated.
A surgical opinion may be appropriate depending on joint damage, symptoms and individual goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this treatment
Other conditions we treat: Back Pain · Neck Pain · Shoulder Pain · Elbow Pain · Hand & Wrist Pain · Knee Pain · Foot & Ankle Pain
Ready to Explore Your Options?
Book a free video consultation with our specialist team to discuss your condition and find the right treatment plan for you.
Book a Free ConsultationMedically reviewed by Dr. Arvin Yarollahi, Specialist in Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology. Last reviewed .