Depending on your situation some suggestions from your doctor might be weight loss, anti-inflammatory medication, braces, orthotics, steroid injections, physical therapy, etc.  

You should start to consider surgery when you have exhausted all other forms of treatment and your pain has started to interfere with everyday activities.  In addition to your pain your doctor will be able to tell you if your loss of cartilage is great or if there has been damage done to your bones and joints.  After discussions, your primary care physician will further direct you to an orthopaedic surgeon to discuss surgical procedures.

Full recovery from hip or knee replacement surgery can take 3-6 months according to your situation.  For hip and knee replacements, a physical therapist will recommend range of motion exercises, strengthening exercises, balancing exercises as well as proper techniques to use for everyday activities.