Performance Lab Physio
Hip Osteoarthritis
What is it?
​Hip osteoarthritis is a common cause of hip pain and stiffness. It develops when the smooth cartilage that cushions the hip joint gradually changes over time, becoming thinner and less even. This can make the joint feel a little less protected and lead to aching, tightness and reduced movement.
You might notice discomfort when walking, climbing stairs, standing up after sitting, or even when lying on your side at night.
Hip OA can develop with age, after previous injury, or simply from the way your joints are shaped and used over time.
What Physio Can do to Help
Physiotherapy can play a major role in easing pain, improving movement and helping you stay active with hip OA. After a thorough assessment, we’ll tailor a programme specifically for you.
This may include gentle hands-on techniques to relieve stiffness, exercises to strengthen and support the hip, advice on walking or activity modifications, and strategies to prevent flare-ups.
With the right approach, many people experience less pain, better mobility and improved confidence in everyday activities.
Why Choose Performance Lab Physio
At Performance Lab Physio, we understand how hip pain can affect every aspect of your life — from getting in and out of the car to enjoying walks, sport or time with family. That’s why we look beyond just your hip.
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Your first appointment includes a detailed 45-minute assessment where we examine not only your hip joint but also your posture, gait, strength and flexibility. This helps us uncover the real factors behind your pain rather than simply easing the symptoms.
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Our physiotherapists in Blackburn and Burnley all have over 10 years of specialist experience treating muscle, bone and joint problems, including hip osteoarthritis. We combine hands-on care, evidence-based exercise programmes and clear advice to give you the best possible results, and we’ll guide you through each stage so you know exactly what to expect.
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Our goal isn’t just to get you out of pain — it’s to help you stay mobile, independent and confident for the long term, with practical tools and personalised advice to manage your hip health for years to come.
FAQ's
What are the first signs of hip Osteoarthritis?
Stiffness or aching in the hip or groin, especially after sitting or first thing in the morning, and reduced movement such as difficulty putting on shoes or getting in/out of a car.
Do I need a scan or Xray to confirm hip Osteoarthritis?
A diagnosis can often be made from your history and an examination. X-rays or scans are only needed if your physiotherapist or GP feels they will add important information.
How can physiotherapy help my hip?
We use gentle hands-on treatment to ease stiffness, exercises to strengthen muscles around the hip and pelvis, and advice on activity modification to reduce stress on the joint.
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Will I need to stop being active?
Usually not. Staying active is important for joint health. We’ll show you safe ways to keep moving and advise on the right level of activity for you.
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How long will it take to feel better?
Everyone is different, but many people notice improvements within a few weeks of consistent treatment and exercise.
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Will I eventually need a hip replacement?
Not always. Many people manage their symptoms successfully with physiotherapy and lifestyle changes. If surgery becomes necessary, staying strong and mobile beforehand often leads to a smoother recovery.