Study suggests weight loss could help treat and manage hip osteoarthritis

Components of the exercise only group consisted of five consultations with a physiotherapist and a home strengthening exercise program. The VLCD plus exercise group underwent the same exercise components along with six consultations with a dietitian to support them undertaking a ketogenic VLCD. The primary outcome was 6-month change in hip pain severity. Secondary outcomes were reported at 6 and 12 months and included body weight, BMI, and hip pain physical function and hip-related quality of life subscales of the Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS). The researchers found that at 6 months, there was no evidence of a between-group difference in hip pain severity.

Similar results were found at 12 months. All secondary outcomes, with the exception of HOOS pain and function, favored VLCD plus exercise at 6 months. However, the benefits of VLCD plus exercise for HOOS pain and function become apparent at 12 months. Additionally, 82% of VLCD plus exercise participants achieved greater than 5% body weight loss versus 16% in exercise only. The findings stimulate further research on clinical topics including whether weight loss can reduce or delay hip joint replacement surgery.

Reference:

Michelle Hall, Rana S. Hinman, Gabrielle Knox, et al. Efficacy of a Very-Low-Calorie Weight Loss Diet Plus Exercise Compared With Exercise Alone on Hip Osteoarthritis Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Ann Intern Med. [Epub 5 August 2025]. doi:10.7326/ANNALS-25-00045.