The human body’s moving parts in joints have small sacs called bursae containing fluid, which act as a cushion for the tendons, ligaments, and muscles. These help to reduce friction between the segments during movement. Hip bursitis occurs when one or more hip bursae become inflamed or irritated. According to a study, 66.7% of female patients undergoing hip arthroplasty procedures had silent trochanteric bursitis at the time. This disorder causes swelling that affects the hip bursae.
Overview of hip bursitis
The hip area has two important bursae susceptible to inflammation or irritation. One of these fluid-filled sacs covers the bony apex of the hip. Its inflammation is referred to as trochanteric bursitis. This particular type is the most common bursitis. In most instances, hip bursitis pain subsides within a few weeks when appropriately treated, but recurrent outbreaks are common.
Symptoms
Hip bursitis is typically characterized by hip pain, the most common symptom. Alongside this, individuals with this condition may also experience several other symptoms, like:
- Ache or stiffness in the joint
- Pain while moving
- Swelling of the joints
- Warmness in the skin covering the joint
- Skin redness close to the joint
Causes
Various factors can contribute to the development of hip bursitis. Some of the common causes include:
- Hip overuse or stressing regularly
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Gout
- Pseudogout
- Injury to the hip
- Bacterial infection
- Diabetes
- Spine problems
- Uneven leg lengths that cause strain
- Bone spurs on the hip
- Muscle tear
- Complications from a hip surgery
- Poor body posture
How is hip bursitis diagnosed, and how can it be prevented?
Hip pain can be diagnosed through a physical examination and may require additional testing such as X-rays, MRIs, and bone scans. To avoid developing bursitis in the hip, it is important not to overexert that area. Prevention tips for bursitis in the hip include:
- Avoid overusing hips to prevent stress
- Train for strength and flexibility to maintain hip muscles
- Maintain a healthy BMI to reduce hip problems
Treatment options
Hip bursitis can be addressed through either surgical or nonsurgical interventions. That said, the condition rarely requires surgery. Operation is only recommended when all other treatments become futile. In surgery, the doctor removes the inflamed bursa, but fortunately, normal hip function can still be maintained even without the fluid-filled sac. Two types of operations are commonly performed for bursa removal- traditional and minimally invasive. Both are typically outpatient procedures, so hospitalization is not necessary. However, minimally invasive surgery offers several advantages over conventional surgery, such as reduced pain, shorter recovery time, and less visible scarring.
In most cases, nonsurgical treatments have proven effective in managing hip bursitis and alleviating the associated pain and symptoms. Some such options available are:
- Hip pain management
Applying ice packs to the hips can help reduce the swelling due to inflammation and pain. - Physical therapy
This therapy includes exercise to strengthen the muscles - Lifestyle modifications
These include changes in meal plans and exercise to manage BMI levels. This will reduce the pressure in the joints.
Outlook
Hip bursitis is one of the major causes of hip pain in adults. Even though this condition cannot be prevented, its inflammation can be managed effectively with timely diagnosis and proper treatment.
