Bursitis is the inflammation of a bursa, which is a jelly-like sac that holds a small amount of fluid and acts as a cushion between bones and soft tissues. Hip bursitis is a common type of bursitis; however, this condition can also occur in the shoulder, elbow, knee, and heel, since these sacs are located all over the body.

Hip bursitis can be caused by injury, trauma, repetitive pressure or friction, or excess weight. The most common symptom is pain at the point of the hip. In the early stages of bursitis, the pain is described as sharp and intense, but it later develops into an ache that spreads across the hip.

There are a variety of nonsurgical treatment options that can be used to treat hip bursitis, such as:

  • Activity modification, like avoiding activities that worsen the symptoms
  • Assistive devices, such as a cane or crutches
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication
  • Physical therapy
  • Steroid injections

If nonsurgical treatment doesn’t offer a solution, surgical options may be recommended, such as hip arthroscopy. However, surgery is rarely necessary to treat hip bursitis. But if it is determined to be the best treatment option for you, a specialty-trained surgeon can remove the bursa through surgery.

If you are experiencing hip pain or think you may have bursitis, make an appointment request with one of our specialists at Tahoe Forest Orthopedics & Sports Medicine or call (530) 587-7461.