Hi Steve,
You must go for the THR.
I was shocked when I was diagnosed in May this year, but had undiagnosed pain in groin for years which got much worse since August last year.
I ended up limping and unable to walk comfortably for more than a few yards, and unable to get on my bike without lowering the saddle.
I was depressed and occasionally thought about suicide.
I went to see an orthopaedic surgeon this May and after scans, he booked me in for a June 15 operation.
He said I could get back to running cycling and horse riding, no problem.
I`m now walking 5 miles every day and back driving.
You must go for it. Nowadays most hip ops are successful if you get a good surgeon.
The recovery can be painful in the soft tissues but if you follow the advice and take the painkillers, you will recover quickly.If you are overweight lose the weight!It will make all the difference and your hip will last longer.
Best of luck, you wont regret it, I dont!
Lydia