Hip pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal problems, but also one of the most frequently misunderstood. Many patients live with symptoms for months or years, assuming it is “normal ageing” or that surgery will be required immediately. In reality, persistent hip pain often has treatable causes, and early specialist assessment can significantly improve outcomes. If you are wondering whether to see a hip surgeon in Manchester, this guide explains when to seek help, what causes hip pain, and what treatment options are available.
What Causes Persistent Hip Pain?
The hip is a ball-and-socket joint designed for strength and mobility. When it becomes damaged or inflamed, pain can develop in the groin, buttock, thigh, or even the knee.
Common causes include:
Osteoarthritis: The most common cause of hip pain in adults. Cartilage gradually wears away, leading to stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility. It is most common over 50 but can occur earlier in patients with hip dysplasia, previous injury, or genetic risk.
Hip dysplasia:A structural abnormality where the socket does not fully cover the femoral head. This causes abnormal joint loading and often leads to early arthritis.
Avascular necrosis (AVN): A condition where reduced blood supply causes bone tissue in the femoral head to die, leading to collapse of the joint. Risk factors include steroid use, alcohol excess, trauma, or underlying medical conditions.
Inflammatory arthritis: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis can affect the hip at any age and often require combined orthopaedic and rheumatology care.
When Should You See a Hip Specialist?
You should consider seeing a hip surgeon if you experience:
- Groin or deep buttock pain that does not improve
- Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes
- Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or dressing
- Pain that disturbs sleep
- A worsening limp
- Persistent pain after hip injury
- Known hip conditions such as dysplasia, AVN, or inflammatory arthritis
Importantly, seeing a hip surgeon does not mean you will need surgery. Many patients are successfully treated without an operation.
What Happens at a Hip Consultation in Manchester?
A specialist consultation typically includes:
- Detailed discussion of symptoms and impact on daily life
- Physical examination of hip movement, strength, and gait
- Review or request of imaging such as X-rays or MRI scans
X-rays are usually the first step to assess arthritis and joint structure, while MRI scans may be used for early disease or soft tissue concerns.
After assessment, your surgeon will explain the diagnosis clearly and discuss all treatment options, from non-surgical care to surgery if required.
The goal is to provide a personalised plan based on your symptoms, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
Is Hip Replacement Surgery Always Required?
Total hip replacement is one of the most successful orthopaedic procedures, but it is only recommended when necessary.
It may be considered when:
- Conservative treatments have failed
- X-rays show advanced arthritis
- Pain significantly limits mobility or sleep
- The patient is medically fit for surgery
Other procedures may include revision hip replacement surgery for failed or previously implanted joints.
Modern enhanced recovery pathways allow many patients to walk the day after surgery and return home quickly, depending on individual progress.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Hip Pain
Many patients benefit from non-operative care, especially in early or moderate disease.
- Physiotherapy: Strengthens surrounding muscles, improves stability, and reduces joint stress.
- Injection therapy: Steroid, hyaluronic acid, or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections may provide short to medium-term pain relief by reducing inflammation and supporting joint function.
- Weight management and activity modification: Reducing load on the hip joint can significantly improve symptoms, even with modest weight loss.
- Medication:: Anti-inflammatory medications may help manage symptoms as part of a structured treatment plan.
Why See a Hip Surgeon in Manchester?
For patients based in Greater Manchester, Rochdale, Bury, Oldham, or the surrounding areas, there are real practical benefits to being treated locally by a specialist who works within both NHS and private settings.
Mr. Cohen provides a patient-centred hip and knee replacement service at The Highfield Hospital, Rochdale (part of Circle Health Group), where he performs complex primary and revision hip replacements. His NHS practice is based at The Royal Oldham Hospital and Fairfield General Hospital, where he also leads the Hip & Knee Replacement service for the Northern Care Alliance NHS Group.
With over 21 years of orthopaedic experience, more than 1,650 hip and knee replacements performed, and fellowship training at internationally recognised centres, including Wrightington Hospital (as John Charnley International Arthroplasty Fellow), Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, and the Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre in Oxford , Mr. Cohen has the expertise to manage a wide range of hip conditions, from straightforward primary replacements to the most complex revision cases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I know if my hip pain is serious?
Pain lasting more than six weeks, affecting walking, sleep, or daily activities should be assessed by a specialist.
Does seeing a hip surgeon mean I need surgery?
No. Many patients are managed successfully with physiotherapy, injections, and lifestyle changes.
How long is recovery after hip replacement?
Most patients walk within a day and go home within 1–2 days. Full recovery typically takes 6–12 weeks.
Can hip pain come from the back?
Yes. The spine and sacroiliac joint can refer pain to the hip region.
Is hip replacement available on the NHS?
Yes, and also privately depending on patient preference and referral pathway.
Book a Hip Consultation in Manchester
Patients concerned about persistent hip pain and seeking a specialist opinion are welcome to book a consultation at Mr. Cohen's private clinic at The Highfield Hospital, Rochdale. For all appointments and enquiries, please call 0170 665 5121 Click to request an appointment online. To speak with our secretary, contact 0161 527 3814
About Mr. Daniel R. Cohen Mr. Daniel R. Cohen is a Consultant Trauma & Orthopaedic Surgeon and Hip & Knee Specialist based in Rochdale, Manchester. He is the Hip & Knee Replacement Lead Surgeon for the Northern Care Alliance NHS Group and an Honorary Senior Lecturer at the University of Salford. With over 21 years of orthopaedic experience and more than 1,650 hip and knee replacements performed, Mr. Cohen is one of the region's leading hip and knee surgeons. He trained at some of the world's foremost arthroplasty centres and is a recipient of the prestigious Jacques Duparc Award from the European Federation of National Associations of Orthopaedics & Traumatology.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Patients experiencing hip pain should consult their GP or a qualified specialist for a personalised assessment.