Hi Brad,
I started having pain in my right hip ( it would "catch" and be very painful for a moment) off and on at about age 38. At age 40 it became more constant, so I finally went to the Dr. I had a good cartilage cushion, and no tear in the labrum ( this was suspected) BUT there where very large and numerous osteophytes all over the femoral head and acetabulum. One looked to be about half an inch long ( I referred to them as shark teeth) I was first referred to an arthroscopic surgeon. After the consultation, I was very discouraged. The Dr said the pain from this type of procedure was high, recovery time long, and the chances of the bone spurs coming back great. I got several other orthopedic opinions, and decided to just wait until I needed a hip replacement. One Dr referred me to a HR Dr. That seemed like the best option. I had hope again!
I did try a steroid injection once in the hip. It did absolutely nothing for me.
At 45 I had had enough. That's when I went in for the HR. You do NOT have to wait until 50! You will know when it is time. It sounds like you are near there already. Quality of life is more important than age. I always tell people here that, when the thought of what will happen to your life if you DON'T have the HR done is more disturbing than the thought of the surgery/procedure itself... it's time!
I had a Wright Conserve + done on my right hip three + years ago now. I don't have any regrets. I am very active, and feel I could participate in most any activity I choose.
Get a few opinions, but be sure to include are least one (two would be better) Dr's who actually do A LOT of HR's.
And, don't wait too long. Don't sacrifice your quality of life because - you don't have too!!!
Good luck. Follow Pat's Dr choosing guidelines on this website.
Lu