Hip bursitis is inflammation of the bursae in the hip, causing pain and limited mobility. Overuse, calcium deposits, bone spurs, falls, or previous surgery can contribute to bursitis. Diagnosis is through physical examination and treatment can be nonsurgical or surgical. Most people respond to nonsurgical treatments in about six weeks.
Hip bursitis is inflammation of one or more bursae located in the hip. Bursae are jelly-like sacs found throughout the body and work to reduce friction between the soft tissue and bone surrounding a joint. If a bursa becomes inflamed or irritated, pain will be caused every time the muscle moves over the bone. Hip pain is most commonly caused by hip bursitis.
The hip has two main bursae; if either becomes inflamed, bursitis will occur resulting in pain and limited hip mobility. A bursa sits over the trochanter or bony part of the hip. The trochanter serves as the attachment point for the muscles that flex the hip. If this bursa becomes irritated, there will be a dull, burning pain on the side of the hip that makes walking or climbing stairs difficult. Pressure on the affected side, such as from lying down to sleep, will also cause pain and wakefulness.
The second bursa, the ischial bursa, is located in the upper buttock and forms a cushion over the bony part of the pelvis. Inflammation around this bursa causes pain in both the buttocks and hip, usually in the form of numbness or tingling that extends up the leg. Symptoms will often be worse when sitting, especially on hard surfaces or when climbing a hill.
Anyone can get hip bursitis. Overuse of the hip joint from running, walking, standing, or even just sitting for long periods of time can cause hip inflammation. Calcium deposits, bone spurs, a fall, or previous hip surgery can contribute to the development of bursitis. Sometimes the cause simply remains unknown.
A physical exam is necessary for a doctor to diagnose hip bursitis. Your doctor will typically look for tenderness in the areas surrounding the bursae. Occasionally, additional tests such as X-rays may be needed to rule out other possible conditions or injuries that may have affected the bone and joints.
Hip bursitis can be treated in two ways: nonsurgically or surgically. Nonsurgical treatment focuses on controlling the inflammation in the hip caused by this condition. Rest, anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, icing on the bursa area or a cortisone injection may be prescribed.
Hip surgery is rarely needed to remove the inflamed bursa. Most people respond to nonsurgical treatments in about six weeks. Hip surgery is performed only after all non-surgical treatments have usually been exhausted.
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