What is Bursitis of the hip?

Bursitis of the hip, also known as trochanteric bursitis, is an irritation or swelling of the trochanteric bursa. This small, fluid-filled sac is located on the outer side of the thigh bone (femur). It acts as a cushion for the iliotibial band, a thick tendon in the leg. 

What causes Bursitis of the hip?

Trochanteric bursitis can be caused by a few different factors: 

• – Repetitive stress or overuse of the hip joint, such as from running, cycling, or other physical activities
• – Trauma, such as a fall or hard blow to the outer side of the hip
• – Poor posture or biomechanics that put excess stress on the hip
• – Certain medical conditions, such as arthritis, tendinitis, or inflammatory disorders

What are the symptoms of bursitis of the hip?

The most common symptom of trochanteric bursitis is pain on the outer side of the hip. This pain may be a sharp or a dull ache, and it can sometimes radiate down to the thigh or up to the buttock. The pain is often worse during physical activity involving the hip, and it may also be aggravated when lying on the affected side.

How do you treat bursitis of the hip?  

Treatment for trochanteric bursitis typically involves a combination of the following: 

• – Rest and activity modification to reduce stress on the hip 
• – Medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain and inflammation 
• – Physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the hip muscles and improve flexibility 
• – Temporary use of a cane or crutches to offload weight on the hip 
• – In some cases, corticosteroid injections into the bursa may be recommended 
• – If conservative treatments are not effective, surgery to remove the inflamed bursa may be considered 

It’s important to work closely with your healthcare provider to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses the underlying cause and provides relief for your symptoms.