Hip Bursitis

Hip bursitis is a common condition that occurs when the bursae—small, fluid-filled sacs located between bones, muscles, and tendons—become inflamed.

At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, with locations in Chardon, Chagrin Falls, Middlefield, and Geneva, OH, we specialize in diagnosing and treating hip-related conditions, including hip bursitis. Contact us today to get the quality care you’re looking for!

Types of Hip Bursitis

There are two main types of hip bursitis:

  1. Trochanteric Bursitis: This occurs when the bursa over the greater trochanter, a part of the hip bone called the greater trochanter, becomes inflamed. Trochanteric bursitis is the most common form of hip bursitis and is usually associated with outer hip pain.
  2. Iliopsoas Bursitis: This type affects the iliopsoas bursa, located near the front of the hip. It often causes pain in the groin area and can sometimes be mistaken for hip joint problems.
A man holding his hip in pain caused by bursitis in Chardon, Ohio.

What Are the Symptoms of Hip Bursitis?

The most common symptom of hip bursitis is pain. The location and intensity of the pain depend on the type of bursitis. Trochanteric bursitis typically results in pain on the outer side of the hip, while iliopsoas bursitis can cause discomfort in the groin. Other symptoms include:

  • Swelling and tenderness over the affected hip
  • Hip pain that worsens with activity or prolonged standing
  • Difficulty lying on the affected side
  • Knee pain or discomfort radiating down the leg in severe cases
  • Stiffness in the hip joint

What Are the Causes and Risk Factors?

Hip Bursitis has many possible causes. Common causes of hip bursitis include:

Additional risk factors for hip bursitis include being older, engaging in high-impact sports, or having a history of hip injuries.

When to See a Doctor

You should consult a doctor if your hip pain persists for more than a few days, significantly impacts your daily activities, or if there is swelling and redness over the hip area. If over-the-counter medications or rest do not relieve pain, it’s important to seek professional help to prevent further complications.

How is Hip Bursitis Diagnosed?

Diagnosing hip bursitis typically starts with a physical examination where a doctor will assess the location and severity of your hip pain. Imaging tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or X-rays, may be recommended to rule out other conditions like fractures or arthritis and to confirm the presence of an inflamed bursa.

How is Hip Bursitis Treated?

Treatment for hip bursitis often starts with conservative approaches aimed at reducing inflammation and pain:

  • Rest and activity modification: Avoid activities that aggravate the condition.
  • Anti-inflammatory medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help reduce swelling.
  • Physical therapy: Exercises to improve hip flexibility and strengthen the muscles around the affected hip can support healing and prevent further injury.
  • Corticosteroid injections: These injections can provide quick relief by reducing inflammation in the hip bursa.
 

In more severe cases, where conservative treatments fail, surgery may be considered to remove the bursa or repair any bone spurs that are irritating the area.

Can Hip Bursitis Be Prevented?

While not all cases of hip bursitis can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

By incorporating these habits into your routine, you can protect your hips from injury and reduce your risk of developing bursitis in the future.

Get Help For Hip Pain

If you’re dealing with hip pain or suspect you may have bursitis, contact Precision Orthopaedic Specialties. Our team of experts is here to help you recover and get back to the activities you love. Contact one of our offices in Northeast Ohio today to learn more about treatment options and schedule an appointment!

Medically reviewed by Gregory C. Sarkisian, D.O.