Hi Judy! Welcome to this site! Check out Pat's intro and other videos if you haven't already. There is a wealth of information on here. Use it!
Just to clarify - is the pain you are experiencing hip pain? (I'm sure it is cuz you're here)
What stage, in relation to hip surgery, are you? Do you have a surgery date, (which means that you've seen a surgeon and are in the midst of the "fun" waiting game?)
I am not medically trained, but this I do know: as a person "responds" to arthritic pain, usually by not moving the arthritic joint or as little as possible, muscles and the surrounding support network do begin to atrophy and weaken. It is imperative, to push through the pain and discomfort of arthritis, to keep as much strength, range-of-motion, and vitality in that specific joint, and in your (our) case your hip(s). It also gives one a sense of proactivity in fighting back against the disease, which does a body, mind, spirit good.
Some people deal with pain - any kind - by overeating or eating a lot of junk food.
And if you're not working presently, that can leave you with a lot of extra time and space to fill with eating ....
What has your doctor said regarding your weight?
That said, who is your doctor? Is he experienced? With heavier patients?
http://www.surfacehippy.info/questionsfordoctor.php Can you swim? Can you ride a stationary bike? Your family Doc could tell you which NSAID's to take to help combat inflammation.
The way I saw it, before my surgery, was, your joint is going to be replaced anyway, so why not burn the piss out of it? (I know, easier said than done! But it is possible!)
Get support if you need it! Any weight loss will be in your favour!
I hope something I've said here helps.
Cheers.