Hip Bursitis: Treatment Options

Hip Bursitis: Treatment Options

This video will review treatment options for hip bursitis. Because most cases of hip bursitis occur gradually over time, nonsurgical treatment is almost always recommended. This involves resting from aggravating activities, like strenuous exercise and prolonged walking or running, especially on uneven surfaces.

Activity modification, which includes avoiding lying on the affected side and sitting with crossed legs, can also help. Physical therapy plays an important role in improving the strength and stability of the hips to decrease muscle imbalances, which can help reduce tension on the IT band and irritation to the underlying bursa. Applying ice to the hip and taking anti-inflammatory medication can also be used to help manage pain.

When symptoms continue, a health care provider may suggest an injection at the side of the hip for further pain relief. If a patient continues to have symptoms that significantly impact their quality of life after trying nonsurgical treatment for several months, surgery may be an option. A surgeon can make cuts into the IT band to reduce tension and/or perform a bursectomy to remove the irritated bursa.

These procedures can typically be performed endoscopically with tiny incisions and a small camera. Patients typically return to walking and physical activity within a few weeks. In summary, most cases of hip bursitis can be treated with nonsurgical treatment. Rest, pain-relieving methods, and activity modification can help. Hip strengthening exercises play an important role in decreasing muscle imbalances that are causing the bursitis. Surgery can be used in certain cases of long-term symptoms.