What is hip bursitis?

Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs located throughout the body typically seen adjacent to tendons. There are two major bursae of the hip. One covers the bony point of the hip bone on the lateral (side) where the gluteal tendons attach and is called the greater trochanter bursa. The other bursa is located in the front of the hip underneath the hip flexor tendon and is called the iliopsoas bursa. Bursitis is irritation and inflammation of the bursa.

What are the symptoms of hip bursitis?

Pain at rest or with movement
Tenderness to touch
Snapping sensation with movement of the hip
Perceived weakness

What causes hip bursitis?

Hip bursitis is most common among women and elderly or middle-aged people. Risk factors for this condition include:

Repetitive stress overuse injuries: Running, bicycling, stair climbing, or standing for long periods can cause bursitis in the hip.

Spine disease: Scoliosis, arthritis of the lower spine, and other spinal conditions can increase the risk of hip bursitis.

Hip surgery: Hip implants or surgery around the hip can irritate the bursae.

Rheumatoid arthritis: The bursae are more likely to become inflamed in people with this disease.

Traumatic injury: Hip injury from a fall, a bump or blow to the hip, or lying on one side of the body for extended periods of time can lead to hip bursitis.

Inequality of leg length: If one leg is shorter than the other, it affects the way a person walks and causes irritation that can lead to bursitis.

Bone spurs and calcium deposits: When calcium deposits or bone spurs develop within the tendons, they can cause inflammation and bursitis.

What treatment options are available?

If the symptoms persist, it is recommended to schedule a consultation with Dr. Yoon. A comprehensive evaluation will be performed and a treatment plan can then be discussed based on the findings.