Hip bursitis is a condition that causes pain and discomfort in the hip area in many people. Understanding hip bursitis can help you make informed health decisions and seek appropriate care if you have symptoms. Our blog post discusses the two major types of hip bursitis and their causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
What is Hip Bursitis?
Hip bursitis occurs when one of the two major bursae in the hip becomes inflamed. Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that act as cushions between bones and soft tissues. They help reduce friction and allow for smooth movement. The greater trochanteric bursa covers the hip’s bony point, and this bursa’s inflammation is called trochanteric bursitis. It is the more common form of hip bursitis. The iliopsoas bursa is located on the inside of the hip toward the groin. It is far less commonly affected, but inflammation in this bursa is known as iliopsoas bursitis.
Causes of Hip Bursitis
Hip bursitis can result from a variety of factors, including:
- Repetitive stress or overuse: Activities that involve repetitive hip movements like running, cycling, or climbing stairs can cause irritation and inflammation in the bursae.
- Trauma or injury: A direct blow to the hip or a fall can lead to bursitis.
- Hip bone spurs or calcium deposits: These can irritate the bursa and cause inflammation.
- Poor posture or muscle imbalances: Misalignment of the hips and pelvis can place stress on the bursae.
- Underlying medical conditions: Rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and lupus are some of the conditions that can cause hip bursitis.
Symptoms of Hip Bursitis
The primary symptom of hip bursitis is a pain in the affected hip. In the case of trochanteric bursitis, pain is typically felt on the outer side of the hip and may radiate down the thigh. Iliopsoas bursitis often causes pain in the groin area. Other symptoms may include swelling, tenderness, stiffness in the hip joint, and difficulty sleeping on the affected side.
Treatment Options for Hip Bursitis
Treatment for hip bursitis typically begins with conservative measures, such as:
- Rest and activity modification: Avoiding activities aggravating the condition can help reduce inflammation.
- Ice and anti-inflammatory medications: These can help reduce pain and swelling.
- Physical therapy: Targeted exercises can help improve strength, flexibility, and posture.
- Corticosteroid injections: These may be recommended for severe cases that do not respond to conservative treatments.
Hip bursitis may require surgery to address the underlying cause or to remove an inflamed bursa in rare cases.
Contact us today for more information about Hip Bursitis treatments at 910-295-0224. We serve Pinehurst and surrounding areas.
