Hip pain can be a debilitating condition that significantly impacts your quality of life. One common culprit behind this discomfort is trochanteric bursitis – also known as hip bursitis - an inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion your hip joint. While it might sound daunting, understanding the condition and available treatment options can help you find relief.
Understanding Hip Bursitis
Hip bursitis occurs when the bursa, a small, fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between tissues, becomes inflamed. This inflammation often results in pain, tenderness, and stiffness in the hip. Several factors can contribute to hip bursitis, including repetitive motions, overuse, injury from a fall, and underlying conditions like arthritis.
Did you know? Hip bursitis is more common in women and people who are middle-aged or over. With that said, it can still affect individuals of any age.
Common Symptoms of Hip Bursitis
Recognizing the signs of hip bursitis is essential for seeking appropriate treatment. Common symptoms include:
- Pain on the side of the hip
- Tenderness and swelling in the hip
- Pain when lying on the affected side
- Difficulty walking or climbing stairs
- Limited hip movement
It's important to note: Hip bursitis pain often worsens at night, making it difficult to sleep.
Non-Surgical Relief Strategies
Fortunately, most cases of hip bursitis can be effectively managed without surgery. A variety of conservative treatments can help alleviate pain and inflammation. These include:
- Rest: Avoiding activities that aggravate the condition is crucial for healing.
- Ice: Applying ice packs to the affected area can reduce swelling and pain.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help manage discomfort.
- Stretching exercises: There are a handful of stretching exercises can help you manage your pain. See our complete list of exercises, here.
- Physical therapy: A physical therapist can develop a personalized exercise program to strengthen the hip muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.
- Corticosteroid injections: In some cases, a doctor may recommend a corticosteroid injection to reduce inflammation directly into the bursa.
Tip: Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce pressure on your hips and alleviate hip bursitis symptoms.
When Surgery Might Be Necessary
While surgery is typically a last resort for hip bursitis, it may be considered in severe, chronic cases that have not responded to conservative treatments. Surgical options may include:
- Bursectomy: Removal of the inflamed bursa.
- Hip arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure to examine and treat the hip joint.
It's important to note: Determining the best course of treatment for hip bursitis requires a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional. If surgery is recommended, rehabilitation can take several weeks to several months.
Finding Relief
If you're experiencing hip pain, it's essential to seek a proper diagnosis and discuss treatment options with a qualified healthcare provider. Early intervention can often prevent the condition from worsening and improve your chances of a full recovery.
American Hip Institute offers expert diagnosis and treatment for hip conditions, including hip bursitis. Our expert team of orthopedic specialists can develop a personalized treatment plan to help you regain mobility and reduce pain. Don't let hip bursitis limit your activities. Contact American Hip Institute today to schedule a consultation.
