What are my alternatives to hip replacement?
Explore hip arthritis treatment choices and why evidence for knee injections, braces, and topical medicines may not apply to the hip.
Read the guide ↗Medically reviewed by Charles A. DeCook, MD ·
← All optionsEstablished care
Cane
A little support with every step.
Who might it suit?
For: Walking made difficult by knee or hip pain.
Not for: An unassessed balance problem or a cane fitted to the wrong height.
Limits and important cautions
A cane does not correct joint damage. Fit and walking instruction matter, particularly when balance is also a concern.
What happens, how long, and what could it cost?
- What happens
- Select and fit the aid; ask for instruction on safe use.
- When might I notice a change?
- Assess comfort and function while using the aid. A change in joint loading does not guarantee pain relief.
- How long might benefit last?
- Support is provided while the aid is used; it does not reverse arthritis.
- Repeat treatment
- Recheck fit if symptoms, skin comfort, or function change.
- Activity and recovery
- Ask about skin checks, footwear, balance, and safe activity.
- Ask for a complete estimate
- Device, fitting, adjustment, and replacement costs.
Use this as a consultation guide. A timeline is not a guarantee; the evidence and FDA sections below remain part of the decision.
THE EVIDENCE IN CONTEXT
Guideline-supported walking aid
Read the 2 selected references
- ACR/Arthritis Foundation: OA management ↗
2019 guideline, published in 2020. Recommendations vary by joint; it predates many newer trials.
- AAOS: nonsurgical knee OA care ↗
Knee-specific guidance; evidence strength varies by treatment. It should not be applied automatically to hip disease.
FDA status
Device rules depend on productA walking aid; device regulation depends on the specific product.
Site summary of FDA information · reviewed September 19, 2026. Refer to current product labeling. This is not an FDA endorsement of this site.What do professional guidelines say?
AAHKS: Lists a cane among traditional non-operative options.
ACR: Strongly recommends cane use when pain, stability, or walking warrants it.
Will Medicare cover it?
Sometimes covered as durable medical equipment with a qualifying order and supplier.