Hip pain and injuries are an unwelcome presence in anyone’s life, especially for athletes and others who need their hips to have maximum mobility and flexibility. Many conditions can cause hip pain, from hip flexor sprains to hip tendonitis to trauma. But one of the most common hip injuries is trochanteric bursitis.
What is Trochanteric Bursitis?
Bursae are fluid-filled sacs that cushion muscles, tendons, and ligaments against bone. There are bursae throughout our bodies, and the trochanteric bursa and the iliopsoas bursa are the two major bursae in the hips. The trochanteric bursa is found at the outside point of the hip called the greater trochanter.
Trochanteric bursitis is caused by inflammation and swelling of the trochanteric bursa. When this bursa becomes inflamed or irritated, it causes pain in the hip.
Causes and Symptoms of Trochanteric Bursitis
Overuse, such as climbing, running up stairs (or using a Stairmaster), or standing for long periods of time are common causes of trochanteric bursitis. So are injuries to the hip caused by bumping into a hard object or a fall. Other causes include incorrect posture, stress on soft tissues, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, thyroid disease, or gout.
Symptoms of hip bursitis include:
- Hip pain and stiffness that becomes more intense with repetitive motions
- Pain when pressing on the hip or groin
- Pain when lying on one’s side
- Pain when walking up stairs
- Pain when rising from a deep sitting position
Treating Trochanteric Bursitis
The inflammation and swelling caused by trochanteric bursitis can often be addressed with a combination of rest, heat and cold application, and splints. If these conservative treatments don’t work, your physician may recommend one or more of the following:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen.
- Corticosteroid injections
- Physical therapy that includes range of motion exercises and splinting
- Surgery, when other treatments are not effective.
Living With Hip Pain? You Don’t Have To. Schedule an Appointment at OrthoMiami Today.
At OrthoMiami, we understand the challenges and struggles that come with living with hip pain. We are committed to using the most advanced and effective methods to relieve pain, repair joints, and restore mobility to patients. The OrthoMiami team always welcomes new patients and can generally schedule new patient appointments within a couple of days.
Please contact us today at (305) 596-2828 to schedule your appointment. We look forward to meeting you.
