If you feel a sharp or aching pain on the outside of your hip when walking, climbing stairs, or lying on your side, you may be experiencing hip bursitis. This condition is one of the most common causes of hip pain, especially in adults over 40.
Hip bursitis occurs when a small, fluid-filled sac called a bursa becomes irritated or inflamed. The bursae act as cushions between bones, tendons, and muscles, reducing friction and allowing smooth movement. When inflammation develops, these cushions become painful and swollen, making everyday activities difficult.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we provide expert diagnosis and evidence-based care for hip bursitis, helping patients across Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas return to active, pain-free movement.
Your hips contain multiple bursae, but the two most commonly affected by bursitis are:
- Trochanteric bursa: Located on the outer side of the hip near the bony prominence called the greater trochanter.
- Iliopsoas bursa: Found near the front of the hip joint.
When these bursae become irritated, they swell and create pain during motion or pressure, particularly when walking, running, or lying on the affected side.
Hip bursitis can develop from injury, repetitive motion, or underlying joint problems. In many cases, inflammation builds up over time without a single clear cause.
Common causes and contributing factors include:
- Repetitive stress: Activities such as running, climbing, cycling, or standing for long periods.
- Direct trauma: A fall or blow to the hip can irritate the bursa.
- Poor posture or gait: Uneven leg length or misalignment can increase hip friction.
- Overuse injuries: Frequent bending or squatting movements strain the hip tissues.
- Previous hip surgery: Scar tissue or altered mechanics may cause bursae irritation.
- Arthritis: Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can contribute to chronic inflammation.
- Bone spurs or calcium deposits: Can rub against the bursa, leading to irritation.
- Infection (septic bursitis): Though rare, infection can cause swelling and tenderness in the area.
Understanding these factors helps target both symptom relief and prevention of recurrence.
Hip bursitis typically causes pain and tenderness around the hip joint, which may worsen during certain movements or positions.
Common symptoms include:
- Sharp or aching pain on the outer side of the hip or buttock
- Pain that worsens when lying on the affected side
- Increased pain after walking, climbing stairs, or sitting for long periods
- Tenderness when pressing on the side of the hip
- Stiffness or limited range of motion
- Swelling or warmth in more severe cases
The pain may begin suddenly after an injury or gradually increase from overuse. Over time, it can spread down the thigh or into the buttock.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history and a thorough physical examination by Dr. Robert L. Burke, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon.
Diagnostic evaluation may include:
- Physical examination: Dr. Burke gently palpates the outer and front areas of the hip to identify tenderness and swelling.
- Movement testing: Specific maneuvers help determine if pain originates from the bursa, joint, or muscles.
Imaging:
- X-rays rule out bone abnormalities or arthritis.
- Ultrasound or MRI can detect fluid buildup, inflamed bursae, or related tendon irritation.
Laboratory testing (if infection suspected): Fluid may be drawn from the bursa to check for bacteria or inflammatory disease.
This comprehensive approach ensures accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment for every patient.
The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and restore mobility while addressing the underlying cause of irritation.
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Rest and activity modification: Avoiding repetitive motion and high-impact activities allows the bursa to heal.
- Cold and heat therapy: Ice reduces inflammation, while gentle heat relaxes surrounding muscles.
- Anti-inflammatory medication: NSAIDs can relieve pain and reduce swelling.
- Strengthening and stretching exercises improve posture, balance, and hip mechanics.
- Targeted therapy decreases inflammation directly within the bursa and surrounding tissue.
- Assistive devices: Temporary use of a cane or crutch can reduce pressure on the affected hip.
Surgical Treatments
When conservative care is unsuccessful, Bursa Removal (Bursectomy) or Arthroscopic Debridement may be considered.
Dr. Burke performs these procedures using minimally invasive techniques to remove the inflamed tissue and restore smooth hip movement.
- Arthroscopy: Minimally invasive procedure to remove debris or smooth damaged cartilage.
- Partial or Total Hip Replacement: Replaces the damaged bone and cartilage with prosthetic components, restoring mobility and reducing pain.
- Reconstructive Surgery: Corrects joint deformities and restores alignment for better long-term function.
Most patients recover from hip bursitis without surgery. The healing timeline varies depending on the severity of inflammation and activity level.
Recovery guidelines:
- Rest the affected hip for several days after flare-ups.
- Follow physical therapy exercises to restore motion and strength.
- Gradually resume low-impact activities like swimming or stationary cycling.
- Maintain healthy posture and avoid uneven pressure on the hips.
If surgery is performed, rehabilitation focuses on regaining strength and flexibility through guided physical therapy, with most patients returning to normal activity within 6–8 weeks.
With proper care, hip bursitis typically resolves completely. However, recurrence can occur if the underlying cause isn’t addressed.
Prevention strategies:
- Stretch the hip and thigh muscles before activity.
- Avoid repetitive movements that strain the hip.
- Use cushioned footwear to reduce impact.
- Maintain a healthy body weight.
- Strengthen the core and gluteal muscles to improve alignment.
- Address any leg-length discrepancy or gait imbalance with professional evaluation.
Preventive maintenance and attention to biomechanics can greatly reduce the risk of chronic bursitis.
You should schedule an evaluation if:
- Hip pain persists longer than two weeks
- Pain worsens with activity or rest
- Swelling or redness develops near the hip joint
- Over-the-counter medications do not provide relief
- Pain interferes with sleep, walking, or daily function
Prompt diagnosis can prevent chronic inflammation and unnecessary discomfort.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
If hip pain is interfering with your mobility or sleep, you don’t have to live with discomfort. Early treatment for hip bursitis can restore full function and prevent long-term irritation.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we provide advanced orthopedic care rooted in compassion, precision, and experience — helping patients across Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas return to the lifestyle they love.
Call (713) 436-3488 or Request an Appointment Online to schedule a consultation with Dr. Robert L. Burke, board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and joint disorders.
