Hip bursitis is a common yet often overlooked condition affecting many individuals in various stages of life. Characterized by inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions the hip joint, it can cause significant pain and discomfort for those afflicted. Understanding this condition’s causes, symptoms, and available treatments can prove invaluable in managing its effects on daily life. For example, let us discuss hip bursitis’s symptoms, causes, and treatment.

What are the common signs and symptoms of hip bursitis?
The symptoms of hip bursitis can vary from person to person, but common signs and symptoms include the following:

• Pain in thighs – The outside of the hip is usually painful when hip bursitis develops. The pain can be sharp, achy, or both. Occasionally, the pain will extend to the outside of the thigh.
• Soreness – The affected area becomes sore and tender to touch in case of hip bursitis.
• Swelling – Inflammation of the bursa may result in hip swelling.
• Difficulty walking or standing – Walking and standing may be difficult for long periods because of discomfort and pain.
• Joints get stiff – Movement may be restricted or stiff at the hip joint.

So, these were some signs and symptoms of hip bursitis one might experience if they are undergoing hip bursitis problems. In this case, they are advised to go for a thorough checkup.

What causes hip bursitis?
Hip bursitis can be affected by factors like age or gender, and females are often more prone to experience hip bursitis. Apart from this, these are the following causes that can contribute to hip bursitis:

• Overuse or repetitive movements – The bursa can become inflamed and irritated if repetitive hip joint motions such as running, cycling, or stair climbing are performed. This type of bursitis, also known as trochanteric bursitis, most commonly affects athletes and individuals who perform repetitive hip-related activities.
• Injury – A direct blow to the hip or a fall onto the hip can damage the bursa and lead to inflammation, resulting in hip bursitis. In addition to pain, tenderness, swelling, and limited hip joint movement, traumatic hip bursitis results from injury.
• Poor posture or biomechanics – Poor posture or faulty biomechanics can cause hip bursitis. Poor posture can cause abnormal pressure and stress on the hip joint, leading to irritation and inflammation of the bursa. Similarly, faulty biomechanics during physical activity can also place excessive stress on the hip joint, causing hip bursitis.
• Uneven-length legs – One contributing factor to the development of hip bursitis is having uneven leg lengths, which can place excessive stress on the hip joint and bursae. Addressing this underlying issue by wearing appropriate footwear or orthotic devices can help alleviate the strain and reduce the risk of bursitis.

What treatment helps in hip bursitis?
Symptoms and underlying causes determine the treatment for hip bursitis. The type of treatment you need depends on whether you require non-surgical or surgical treatment. The following are a few standard treatment options for hip bursitis:

• Change in resting activities – An excellent way to reduce inflammation and pain in the hip joint is to rest it and avoid activities that aggravate the symptoms of hip bursitis.
• Physical therapy – Another practical approach to treating hip bursitis involves incorporating specific exercises into a patient’s daily routine. As a result, muscles surrounding the hip joint are strengthened.
• Ice packs – Applying an ice pack to the injured area, according to medical professionals, can help lessen discomfort and inflammation.
• Massage therapy – Gentle massage around the hip can help relieve tension and reduce pain.
• Turmeric – It is a natural anti-inflammatory agent that can help reduce inflammation in the affected area. Add turmeric to your meals or take supplements after consulting with a doctor.
• Epsom salt baths – A warm Epsom salt bath can help reduce pain and inflammation. Add one to two cups of Epsom salt to a warm bath and soak for 15-20 minutes.
• Surgery – In some cases, conservative treatment options for hip bursitis may not provide sufficient relief, making surgical intervention necessary. Surgery can help address the underlying cause of the inflammation and alleviate the persistent pain associated with this condition.

Balance management in pain includes prescription treatments, rest, and physical therapy. The treatments, as mentioned earlier, are widely practiced and have a great success rate.

This common condition can significantly impact a person’s daily activities and well-being. Therefore, it’s crucial to recognize it early and treat it properly to alleviate symptoms of hip bursitis and restore normal function.

It can prevent hip bursitis or reduce symptoms’ severity by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and stretching. The most effective way to treat persistent hip pain is to seek medical advice immediately and accurately for an accurate diagnosis.