About Hip Bursitis
Hip bursitis, also known as trochanteric bursitis, is the inflammation or swelling of the fluid-filled sacs located on the outside of the hips. These sacs, called bursae, act as cushions to reduce friction between bones, tendons, ligaments, and muscles near the hip joint.
Hip bursitis can occur due to various factors such as acute injury, overuse, unequal leg lengths, spine disease, previous surgery, rheumatoid arthritis, or calcium deposits. The most common symptom of hip bursitis is pain, initially sharp and intense at the point of the hip and later spreading across a larger area. Activities that involve hip movements can worsen the pain.
Diagnosis is typically done through a physical examination and imaging tests such as X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Treatment options for hip bursitis include modifying activities, rest from sports and exercise, physical therapy, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain and inflammation reduction, corticosteroid injections with a local anesthetic to alleviate symptoms.
The causes of hip bursitis include:
- Injuries from falls or hard hits to the hipbone
- Overuse from repetitive activities like running, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods
- Hip surgery or prosthetic implants
- Ripped tendons
- Spine problems such as scoliosis
- Arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis and gout
- Thyroid disease
- Bone spurs in the hip or thighbone
- Leg length difference
Non-modifiable risk factors for hip bursitis, which are disease factors that cannot be controlled or changed, include:
- Aging (more common in middle-aged or elderly individuals)
- Being female (women are more likely to develop hip bursitis than men)
Modifiable risk factors for hip bursitis, which are disease factors that can be controlled or changed, include:
- Excessive running, stair climbing, or standing for extended periods
- Infection (infectious bursitis)
- Health conditions like gout, rheumatoid arthritis, and scleroderma
Remember, it's important to consult with your healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and personalized advice.
The most common early symptoms of hip bursitis include:
- Sharp and intense pain at the point of the hip
- Pain that spreads across a larger area of the hip
- Pain worsens with activities that require hip movements
- Soreness when pressing on the outside of the hip or lying on that side
As hip bursitis progresses or becomes more severe, other symptoms may occur, such as:
- Radiating pain down the thigh
- Swelling in the affected leg
- Pain that fades into an ache
It's important to note that these symptoms can vary from person to person, and not everyone will experience all of them. If you suspect you have hip bursitis or are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
To diagnose hip bursitis, doctors typically perform the following examinations, tests, and procedures:
- Medical history review: The doctor will ask about your symptoms and how long you have been experiencing discomfort
- Physical examination: The doctor will conduct a physical exam of the hip, looking for tender areas near the bursa
- Imaging tests: These tests help rule out other conditions and confirm a diagnosis. Common imaging tests include X-rays, MRI scans, hip ultrasounds, and bone scans
To determine the stage or severity of hip bursitis, additional examinations, tests, and procedures may be recommended:
- X-ray: This test can show any bone density changes or joint cartilage damage associated with hip bursitis
- MRI scan: Provides detailed images of the inside of the body to assess the extent of inflammation and tissue damage
- Blood tests: These may be done to assess for certain proteins associated with hip bursitis or other inflammatory conditions
Remember, only a healthcare professional can accurately diagnose and determine the stage or severity of hip bursitis and eliminate other factors and conditions that could contribute to hip pain.
The goals of treatment for hip bursitis are to reduce pain and improve functionality. Here are the various treatment options and how they work to achieve these goals:
Medication:
- Anti-inflammatory medications: These can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Ask your doctor about over-the-counter options like ibuprofen or naproxen.
- Corticosteroid injections: These injections can help reduce pain and inflammation in the hip area.
Therapies:
- Physical therapy exercises: These exercises can improve range of motion and strengthen the muscles around the hip, reducing pain and improving functionality
Therapeutic procedures:
- Surgery: In rare cases where other treatments are unsuccessful, surgery may be recommended to remove the bursa.
Health behavior changes:
- Weight loss: If overweight, losing weight can alleviate strain on the hips, reducing hip bursitis pain
Other treatments:
- Home management: Modifying activities that worsen symptoms, using walking aids like a cane or crutches to reduce strain on the hip, and applying heating or cooling pads can provide relief
Remember to consult with your healthcare professional before starting any medication or treatment. Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Other side effects can occur.
Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information.