Hip Bursitis

Expert Care for Hip Pain & Inflammation

Hip Bursitis — specifically Greater Trochanteric Bursitis — occurs when the bursae on the outer side of the hip become irritated or inflamed. These small, fluid-filled sacs help reduce friction between bones, tendons, and muscles. When they become inflamed, the result is persistent pain, tenderness, and difficulty walking or sleeping on the affected side. At iMsk & Spine Group, we provide warm, individualized care designed to reduce inflammation, relieve hip pain, and help you return to comfortable, active movement.

What Is Hip Bursitis?

The hip contains several bursae, but the one most commonly affected is the greater trochanteric bursa — located on the outer side of the hip. When this bursa becomes inflamed, it leads to pain with movement, pressure, and activity.

This condition is especially common in:

  • Athletes
  • Runners
  • Individuals with hip muscle weakness or imbalance
  • People who stand, walk, or climb stairs frequently

Hip Bursitis can be very painful, but it is highly treatable with early intervention and a personalized approach.

Common Causes of Hip Bursitis

Overuse & Repetitive Activity

  • Long-distance running
  • Jumping sports
  • Repeated stair climbing
  • Prolonged standing or walking

Muscle Weakness or Imbalance

  • Weak gluteal muscles
  • Tight iliotibial (IT) band
  • Poor hip alignment or gait abnormalities

    Injury or Trauma

    • Falls landing on the outer hip
    • Direct blows during sports
    • Rapid increases in training activity

      Other Contributing Factors

      • Leg-length differences
      • Arthritis in the hip or lower back
      • Prior hip surgeries

        Understanding the cause helps us tailor treatment to restore optimal movement.

         

        Symptoms of Hip Bursitis

        Pain & Tenderness

        • Sharp or aching pain on the outer side of the hip
        • Pain that worsens with walking, climbing stairs, or standing

        Nighttime Discomfort

        • Pain when lying on the affected side
        • Difficulty sleeping due to pressure on the hip

        Movement-Related Symptoms

        • Pain when crossing legs
        • Pain when getting up from a chair
        • Pain radiating down the outer thigh

        Activity Limitations

        • Limping
        • Reduced ability to exercise or walk long distances

        Symptoms may start gradually or after a specific injury.

        How We Treat Hip Bursitis at iMsk & Spine Group

        We develop personalized treatment plans to reduce inflammation, ease pain, and correct biomechanical issues.

        1. Conservative Care

        • Anti-inflammatory medications
        • Ice or heat therapy
        • Activity modification
        • Proper footwear and surface changes

        2. Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation

        • Stretching of the IT band and hip muscles
        • Strengthening of gluteal and core muscles
        • Gait training
        • Manual therapy to improve hip mobility
        • Corrective exercises for alignment and balance

        3. Interventional Treatments

        • Corticosteroid injections for rapid pain relief
        • Ultrasound-guided injections for accuracy
        • Advanced inflammation-relief procedures if needed

        4. Lifestyle & Posture Guidance

        • Weight management if appropriate
        • Ergonomic adjustments
        • Sleep position recommendations
        • Long-term home exercise program

        5. Prevention Strategies

        • Proper warm-up and cooldown routines
        • Strengthening and stretching balance
        • Gradual return-to-sport plans

        Most patients experience significant improvement with a structured treatment plan.

        Hip Bursitis FAQ

        Is Hip Bursitis the same as hip arthritis?

        No. Bursitis involves inflammation of the bursa, while arthritis involves degeneration of the joint. They can occur together but are two different conditions.

        Why does Hip Bursitis hurt more at night?

        Lying on the affected side puts direct pressure on the inflamed bursa, intensifying pain.

        Can Hip Bursitis be cured?

        Yes — most cases improve significantly with proper stretching, strengthening, and inflammation management.

        Are injections useful for Hip Bursitis?

        Yes. Steroid injections can offer rapid relief when symptoms are severe or persistent.

        What happens if Hip Bursitis is not treated?

        Pain may worsen, gait abnormalities can develop, and chronic inflammation may limit daily activities.

        How long does recovery take?

        Many patients see improvement within weeks; more chronic cases may take a few months with consistent therapy.
        Condition Hip Joint Disorders Freeport