Hip Bursitis

What Is Hip Bursitis?

Hip bursitis is inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions bones and tendons near joints. In runners, trochanteric bursitis (inflammation of the bursa on the outside of the hip) is most common.

The condition typically causes pain on the outside of the hip and can significantly impact running performance. Early recognition and treatment are important to prevent the condition from becoming chronic.

Symptoms and Causes

Symptoms of hip bursitis

Common symptoms include:

• Pain on outside of hip: Discomfort that may radiate down the thigh
• Pain during running: Discomfort that worsens with activity
• Pain when lying on side: Discomfort when sleeping on affected side
• Tenderness: Soreness when pressing on the hip
• Stiffness: Reduced flexibility

Hip bursitis causes

Common causes include:

• Overuse: Repetitive stress from running
• Muscle imbalances: Weakness or tightness in hip muscles
• Tight IT band: Can cause friction on the bursa
• Sudden increases in activity: Rapidly increasing training intensity
• Biomechanical issues: Poor running form

Risk factors

Risk factors include overuse, muscle imbalances, tight IT band, sudden activity changes, and previous hip injury.

Complications of hip bursitis

If not properly treated, complications can include chronic pain and reduced performance.

Diagnosis and Tests

How you can diagnose hip bursitis

Initial self-assessment can help identify hip bursitis through location of pain and pain pattern. If pain persists, seek medical attention.

Tests that can help diagnose hip bursitis

Healthcare professionals may use physical examination, imaging tests if needed, and assessment of running form.

Management and Treatment

How do you heal hip bursitis quickly?

Effective treatment includes rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medication, hip strengthening, IT band stretching, physical therapy, and gradual return to running.

Hip bursitis recovery time

Recovery time varies from 4-8 weeks depending on severity. Addressing underlying causes is important for long-term recovery.

What Could Help

Several products can aid recovery:

• Foam rollers: Foam rollers for IT band stretching
• Resistance bands: Resistance bands for hip strengthening
• Ice packs: Reusable ice packs for inflammation
• Massage tools: Massage guns for muscle tension

Prevention

How can I prevent hip bursitis?

Preventive measures include hip strengthening, IT band stretching, gradual training progression, and addressing muscle imbalances.