Disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional for advice specific to your condition. © 2026 Better Physiotherapy Bundoora.
Hip osteoarthritis is one of the most common and disabling musculoskeletal conditions in Australia. The good news: the most effective treatment is exercise — not medication, injections, or surgery. A physiotherapy-prescribed exercise program can dramatically reduce pain and improve function, often for years.
How Hip OA Affects the Joint
Hip OA involves progressive degradation of the articular cartilage — the smooth covering that allows the ball and socket to glide painlessly. As cartilage thins, the underlying bone reacts by forming osteophytes (bone spurs) and the joint space narrows. Pain arises from the synovial membrane (joint lining), subchondral bone, and surrounding muscles and tendons — not the cartilage itself (which has no nerve supply).
Why Exercise Works for Hip OA
- Strengthens the muscles that protect the hip joint and distribute load
- Improves joint nutrition — cartilage has no blood supply and relies on movement for fluid exchange
- Reduces pain through endorphin release and central pain modulation
- Reduces body weight — each kilogram lost reduces hip joint load by 3–6 times the amount during walking
- Improves balance and reduces fall risk
- Maintains function and independence for daily activities
The GLAD Program
GLA:D (Good Life with osteoArthritis in Denmark) is a structured 8-week physiotherapy program for hip and knee OA, now available across Australia. It consists of twice-weekly supervised exercise sessions and education workshops. Strong evidence from thousands of patients shows significant improvements in pain, function, and confidence — with results maintained at 12 months.
Hip OA Treatment at Better Physiotherapy Bundoora
We provide comprehensive hip OA physiotherapy including individualised exercise programs, education, and GLA:D where appropriate. Medicare EPC plans available. Call (03) 9467 6900 or book online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes hip osteoarthritis?
Hip OA involves degradation of the cartilage lining the hip joint, along with bone changes (osteophytes, subchondral bone sclerosis) and synovial inflammation. Risk factors include age, obesity, previous hip injury (labral tears, FAI), developmental dysplasia of the hip, and genetics. The traditional view of OA as purely "wear and tear" is oversimplified — it is a whole-joint disease with significant biological components.
What exercises are best for hip osteoarthritis?
A comprehensive hip OA exercise program includes: hip strengthening (gluteus medius, gluteus maximus, hip flexors), quadriceps strengthening, aerobic exercise (walking, cycling, swimming), and flexibility exercises. The GLAD (Good Life with osteoArthritis in Denmark) program is an evidence-based 8-week exercise and education program with strong evidence for hip OA.
Does hip OA always lead to hip replacement?
No. Many people manage hip OA well for years — or indefinitely — with appropriate exercise, weight management, and physiotherapy. Surgery is considered when quality of life is significantly impacted despite optimised conservative management. The timing should be patient-driven and based on individual goals and impact on daily function.
Will exercise wear out my hip faster?
No. This is a common misconception. Exercise — particularly low-impact aerobic exercise and resistance training — does not accelerate cartilage loss in hip OA. Studies consistently show that appropriate exercise maintains or even improves cartilage quality and thickness. The evidence strongly supports staying active.
Ashley Haleel
Physiotherapist & Owner — Better Physiotherapy Bundoora