Hip Bursitis (Trochanteric bursitis) is inflammation of the fluid-filled
sacs called bursae at outside of the hip called the greater trochanter.
Bursae cushion your bones, tendons, and muscles at the hip joint and when
this bursa becomes inflamed, it causes hip pain.
Causes of Hip Bursitis
Hip bursitis is one of the most common causes of hip pain. It can affect
anyone, but is more common amongst women, older adults or those with a
previous hip injury.
The following are more commonly associated with the development of hip bursitis:
Overuse injury: Runners, cyclists or people who stand for long periods of time can be
susceptible to developing hip bursitis.
Hip injury: A previous injury to the point of the hip can later develop into hip bursitis
Spine disorders: A spinal deformity such as scoliosis, arthritis of the
lumbar spine, and other spine problems.
Inflammatory conditions: Rheumatoid arthritis, or other problems that irritate the bursa and lead
to inflammation.
Leg length unevenness: If one leg is significantly shorter than the other this can lead to irritation
of the hip bursa.
Previous surgery: Surgery around the hip or hip replacement implants can irritate the bursa
and cause bursitis.
Bone spurs or calcium deposits: Bone growths can develop within the tendons and attach themselves to the
trochanter which can cause the bursa to become irritated and inflamed
leading to bursitis.
There are two major types of hip bursae that can become irritated or inflamed:
the trochanteric bursa and iliopsoas bursa.
Symptoms include:
Feeling achy or stiff
Experiencing more pain when you move or press the irritated hip
A swollen, red appearance
Diagnosing Hip Bursitis
Your hip surgeon will take a medical history and perform a thorough physical
exam to diagnose your hip pain. Further diagnostic imaging such as X-Rays
or MRI scans may be necessary to properly diagnose your condition since
hip bursitis can commonly be mistaken for hip tendonitis since both conditions
can present with swelling and discomfort around the hip joint.
Hip Bursitis Treatment
Non-surgical Treatment for Hip Bursitis
In most cases, hip bursitis does not involve surgery. Many people can benefit
from nonsurgical treatment and lifestyle changes including:
Activity Modification: Avoid activities and sports that worsen symptoms
Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can
help relieve pain and inflammation.
Assistive Devices: Using a cane or crutches can help avoid full weight bearing on the affected hip.
Physical therapy: Hip stretches and strengthening exercises can help relieve pain. Massage,
ice, heat and ultrasound may also be used by a physical therapist to help
relieve pain.
Steroid injections: A cortisone injection is a common treatment that reduces inflammation
and can be helpful in relieving symptoms of hip bursitis.
Surgical Treatment for Hip Bursitis
Surgery is rarely needed to treat hip bursitis. If conservative treatments
have been tried and symptoms persist over a 6-to-12-month period, your
hip surgeon may recommend surgery. Surgery involves removal of the inflamed
bursa. The hip can function normally without the bursa.
Experiencing hip pain?
Our hip surgeons are experts at treating hip bursitis
Call Newport Orthopedic Institute in Orange County
at to make an appointment.
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