@sugarmonkeys - it’s unclear if you are just thinking a hip replacement is in your future , or if that’s something a physician has said to you. If you have n’t seen anyone , I agree with windyshores , you should make an appt cause you may be stressing about something that’s not even in the cards. I went to see a very good sports medicine physician that works within an orthopedic practice. I wanted to see someone that has tools in his tool chest other than surgery. But keep in mind there are lots of reasons for hip inflexibility and pain. You might even want to first start with a good orthopedic PT , then sports med physician , then orthopedic surgeon if needed as your situation begins to be figured out. Keep in mind there are many reasons and underlying issues that can cause those types of complaints at the hip. It’s a complex joint area. Good luck!!