What Is Hip Bursitis?
Hip bursitis is a painful condition caused by inflammation of the bursae around the hip joint. Bursae are small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near joints and help reduce friction during movement.
When a bursa becomes irritated or inflamed, it can cause pain along the outer hip, tenderness, stiffness, and difficulty with walking or physical activity. Hip bursitis commonly affects the greater trochanter area on the outside of the hip.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained hip specialists provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment options to help patients reduce pain, restore mobility, and return to normal daily activities.
Symptoms of Hip Bursitis
- Pain along the outside of the hip
- Tenderness when pressing on the hip
- Pain that worsens with walking, climbing stairs, or exercise
- Discomfort when lying on the affected side
- Hip stiffness or reduced mobility
- Swelling or warmth near the hip in some cases
- Pain that radiates down the thigh
Causes & Risk Factors
Hip bursitis often develops from repetitive stress, overuse, or irritation around the hip joint.
- Repetitive walking, running, or stair climbing
- Prolonged pressure on the hip
- Hip injuries or falls
- Poor posture or gait abnormalities
- Muscle weakness or tightness
- Arthritis or inflammatory conditions
- Previous hip surgery
Diagnosis
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, diagnosis begins with a detailed evaluation of the hip and surrounding soft tissues.
- Physical examination of the hip and pelvis
- Assessment of tenderness and mobility
- Review of symptoms and activity level
- Evaluation of walking mechanics and muscle strength
- X-rays or MRI imaging when needed to rule out other conditions
Proper diagnosis helps identify the source of pain and guides the most effective treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Hip Bursitis
Non-Surgical Treatment
Most cases of hip bursitis improve with conservative treatment. Non-surgical treatment options may include:
- Activity modification and rest
- Ice therapy and anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy and stretching exercises
- Hip strengthening programs
- Corticosteroid injections
- Gait and posture correction
- Low-impact exercise programs
Surgical Treatment
Surgery is rarely required but may be considered for severe cases that do not improve with conservative treatment. Surgical treatment may involve removing the inflamed bursa or addressing underlying structural problems contributing to ongoing irritation.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery timelines vary depending on the severity of inflammation and the treatment approach used.
- Many patients improve within several weeks with conservative care
- Physical therapy may help improve flexibility and strength
- Activity modification helps reduce irritation during healing
- Long-term prevention often focuses on improving movement mechanics and muscle balance
Early treatment may help prevent chronic hip pain and ongoing inflammation.
Why Choose Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists?
Local Care, Close to Home
We proudly serve patients throughout Delaware and nearby communities, including Wilmington, Newark, Middletown, Stanton, North Wilmington, and Chadds Ford. Our hip specialists provide advanced orthopedic care close to home.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained physicians provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for hip pain and musculoskeletal conditions.
- Experienced hip and sports medicine specialists
- Advanced imaging and musculoskeletal evaluation
- Comprehensive non-surgical and surgical treatment options
- Personalized rehabilitation and recovery plans
- Convenient locations throughout Delaware and nearby Pennsylvania
Schedule an Appointment
Schedule an appointment with Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists today to receive expert diagnosis and treatment for hip bursitis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes hip bursitis?
Hip bursitis is commonly caused by repetitive stress, overuse, injury, poor movement mechanics, or inflammation affecting the hip bursae.
Can hip bursitis go away on its own?
Mild cases may improve with rest and activity modification, though persistent symptoms often benefit from professional treatment.
How long does hip bursitis take to heal?
Recovery varies depending on severity, but many patients improve within several weeks to months with appropriate care.
Do I need surgery for hip bursitis?
Surgery is rarely required and is usually reserved for severe cases that do not improve with conservative treatment.
When should I see a specialist?
If hip pain interferes with walking, exercise, sleep, or daily activities, it is important to seek orthopedic evaluation.