Hip Bursitis

Hip bursitis is inflammation of the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that act as cushions between bones, tendons, and muscles around the hip joint. The most common type is trochanteric bursitis, which affects the bursa over the greater trochanter (the bony prominence on the outer side of the hip).

Bursitis typically develops from repetitive friction or pressure on the bursa, causing it to become inflamed and painful. This can result from overuse activities, muscle imbalances, direct trauma, or underlying conditions like hip arthritis or leg length discrepancies. The inflammation causes pain, swelling, and tenderness over the affected area.

At Mountain Spine & Orthopedics, our specialists use physical examination and imaging including ultrasound or MRI to diagnose hip bursitis and identify any underlying causes. Most cases respond well to conservative treatment, though persistent cases may require more advanced interventions.

• Pain on the outer hip (lateral hip pain) that may radiate down the thigh
• Tenderness when pressing on the affected area
• Pain that worsens with activities like walking, climbing stairs, or lying on the affected side
• Swelling or warmth over the bursa
• Stiffness in the hip, especially in the morning
• Pain that may be sharp initially but becomes a dull ache
• Difficulty sleeping on the affected side

Several factors increase the risk of developing hip bursitis:

• Repetitive activities that stress the hip, such as running, cycling, or climbing stairs
• Direct trauma or injury to the hip
• Muscle imbalances or weakness in the hip stabilizers
• Leg length discrepancies that alter hip biomechanics
• Underlying conditions like hip arthritis or hip impingement
• Previous hip surgery or injury
• Certain occupations or activities that involve repetitive hip motion
• Age-related changes in muscle strength and flexibility

Diagnosis begins with a comprehensive physical examination to identify the location of pain and tenderness. Our specialists assess range of motion, muscle strength, and perform specific tests that reproduce the symptoms.

While diagnosis is often clinical, we may use ultrasound to visualize the inflamed bursa and confirm the diagnosis. In some cases, MRI review may be ordered to rule out other causes of hip pain or identify underlying conditions. X-rays may be used to assess for bone spurs or other structural issues that may contribute to bursitis.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Most cases of hip bursitis respond well to conservative treatment, including rest and activity modification to avoid activities that aggravate symptoms, ice therapy to reduce inflammation, and physical therapy referrals to address muscle imbalances, strengthen hip stabilizers, and improve flexibility.

Injection or Interventional Care

For patients with persistent pain, corticosteroid injections directly into the bursa can provide significant relief by reducing inflammation. These injections are typically performed under ultrasound guidance for accuracy. Biologic injections like PRP may also be considered for chronic cases.

Surgical Treatment Options

In rare cases where conservative treatment fails and symptoms persist, surgical intervention may be considered. Bursectomy (removal of the inflamed bursa) may be performed, typically using minimally invasive techniques. This is usually reserved for severe, chronic cases that have not responded to other treatments.

Hip bursitis pain is typically localized to the outer hip and is often described as a sharp, burning pain that worsens with pressure or specific movements. The pain may be constant or intermittent, depending on activity level.

Lying on the affected side often exacerbates the pain, making sleep difficult. The pain typically improves with rest and worsens with activities that stress the hip, such as walking, running, or climbing stairs. Our comprehensive treatment approach addresses both the inflammation and any underlying causes, providing lasting relief.

Several strategies can help prevent hip bursitis from developing or recurring:

• Avoiding repetitive activities that stress the hip without proper conditioning
• Maintaining strong hip stabilizers through regular exercise
• Using proper technique and equipment during physical activities
• Addressing muscle imbalances through targeted exercise
• Gradual progression in activity intensity to avoid overuse
• Proper warm-up and stretching before activities
• Addressing underlying conditions like leg length discrepancies or arthritis
• Seeking early treatment if symptoms develop to prevent chronic inflammation

If outer hip pain is affecting your daily activities or sleep, schedule a consultation with Mountain Spine & Orthopedics today. Benefit from expert evaluation and personalized treatment to resolve your hip bursitis. Same-day and next-day appointments are often available.