Hip Bursitis

Hip bursitis is one of the most common causes of hip pain, particularly pain felt along the outer portion of the hip. The condition develops when a bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between bones, muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues, becomes irritated and inflamed.

When inflammation occurs, normal movement of the hip can become painful and uncomfortable. Symptoms may start gradually and worsen over time, especially with repetitive activities such as walking, running, climbing stairs, or prolonged standing. At Fox Valley Orthopedics, we offer comprehensive evaluation and treatment options to help patients reduce pain, restore mobility, and return to their everyday activities.

What Is Hip Bursitis?

Bursae are small, fluid-filled cushions located throughout the body near joints. Their job is to reduce friction and allow muscles, tendons, and bones to move smoothly against one another.

The hip contains several bursae, but the most commonly affected is the greater trochanteric bursa, located on the outside of the hip. When this bursa becomes inflamed, a condition known as trochanteric bursitis develops.

Inflammation within the bursa can make routine movements painful and may interfere with exercise, work, sleep, and other daily activities.

What Types of Hip Bursitis Are There?

Several bursae around the hip can become irritated or inflamed.

Trochanteric Bursitis

Trochanteric bursitis is the most common form of hip bursitis. It affects the bursa located over the bony prominence on the outside of the hip and typically causes pain that radiates down the outer thigh.

Iliopsoas Bursitis

Iliopsoas bursitis affects a bursa located near the front of the hip joint. Patients often experience groin pain and discomfort during hip flexion activities such as climbing stairs or rising from a seated position.

Ischial Bursitis

Ischial bursitis affects the bursa near the sitting bones of the pelvis. Pain is often felt while sitting for extended periods and may worsen during physical activity.

What Causes Hip Bursitis?

Hip bursitis can develop from a variety of factors that place repetitive stress on the hip joint.

Common causes include:

Repetitive motion or overuse
Running, walking, or cycling activities
Direct impact or injury to the hip
Prolonged pressure on the hip
Muscle weakness or imbalance
Poor posture or gait abnormalities
Leg length differences
Bone spurs or calcium deposits
Rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory conditions
Previous hip surgery

In many cases, more than one contributing factor is present.

What Are Hip Bursitis Symptoms?

Hip bursitis symptoms often develop gradually and may become worse with continued activity.

Common signs and symptoms include:

Pain on the outside of the hip
Tenderness when pressing on the hip
Pain that radiates down the outer thigh
Discomfort while walking, running, or climbing stairs
Pain when lying on the affected side
Stiffness after periods of inactivity
Swelling near the hip
Increased discomfort after prolonged activity

Many patients notice that pain worsens at night or following extended periods of exercise.

How Is Hip Bursitis Diagnosed?

Diagnosing hip bursitis begins with a thorough examination by an orthopedic specialist.

Diagnostic evaluation may include:

Review of symptoms and medical history
Physical examination
Assessment of hip strength and flexibility
Evaluation of gait and movement patterns
X-rays to rule out arthritis or other bony abnormalities
MRI imaging when soft tissue injuries are suspected
Ultrasound imaging in select cases

The goal of diagnostic testing is to confirm bursitis while identifying any underlying issues contributing to the condition.

How Is Hip Bursitis Treated?

Most patients experience significant improvement with conservative treatment.

Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and correcting contributing factors that place stress on the hip.

Nonsurgical Treatment for Hip Bursitis

Nonsurgical treatment options may include:

Activity modification
Physical therapy
Stretching and strengthening exercises
Anti-inflammatory medications
Ice therapy
Weight management strategies
Assistive devices when needed
Corticosteroid injections

Physical therapy is often one of the most effective treatments because it addresses muscle imbalances and movement patterns that may contribute to recurring symptoms.

Hip Bursitis Surgery

Surgery is rarely required for hip bursitis. However, when symptoms persist despite extensive conservative treatment, surgical intervention may be considered.

Procedures may include:

Bursa removal (bursectomy)
Correction of underlying structural abnormalities
Repair of associated tendon injuries

An orthopedic hip specialist at Fox Valley Orthopedics can help determine whether surgery is appropriate based on the severity and duration of symptoms.

What Does Hip Bursitis Recovery Look Like?

Recovery timelines vary depending on the severity of symptoms and the treatment approach used.

Many patients begin noticing improvement within several weeks of starting conservative treatment. Physical therapy and activity modifications often help patients return to normal activities without surgery.

For patients who require injections or surgical treatment, recovery may take longer and typically includes a structured rehabilitation program to restore strength, flexibility, and function.

Can Hip Bursitis Be Prevented?

While not every case can be prevented, certain lifestyle habits may reduce the risk of developing hip bursitis.

Prevention strategies include:

Maintaining flexibility and strength
Warming up before exercise
Gradually increasing activity levels
Using proper exercise techniques
Maintaining a healthy weight
Addressing gait or biomechanical issues
Avoiding prolonged pressure on the hips

These measures can help reduce stress on the bursae and support long-term hip health.

Get Expert Hip Bursitis Care at Fox Valley Orthopedics

Persistent hip pain can affect your ability to exercise, work, sleep, and enjoy everyday activities. At Fox Valley Orthopedics, our experienced specialists provide comprehensive care for hip bursitis, from advanced diagnostics and physical therapy recommendations to injection therapies and surgical treatment when necessary.

Whether your treatment involves activity modification, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory treatments, injections, or surgery, our team is committed to helping you regain comfort, mobility, and confidence. If you’re experiencing symptoms of hip bursitis, schedule an appointment with Fox Valley Orthopedics today by calling (855) 386-7846 to discuss your treatment options and take the first step toward lasting relief.