Hip Bursitis – Causes and Treatment 

The bursae are small fluid filled sacs which serve as a ‘cushion’ and lubricant for the joints. When these sacs become inflamed due to overuse or injury, you may experience a painful condition known as bursitis. People who work in physically demanding jobs, along with runners, dancers and others who perform repetitive motions are at a greater risk of experiencing hip bursitis. Your physiotherapist is equipped to diagnose and treat bursitis, and appropriate massage techniques and exercises can help to relieve discomfort and put you on track towards recovery. In this blog post, we will be sharing some common symptoms, causes and treatment options for hip bursitis.  

The Role of Bursa 

Bursa are small sacs filled with fluid that are found wherever a muscle or tendon is near a bone. Positioned between the muscle or tendon and the bone, they serve as ‘cushions’ which prevent friction between different parts of the body.  

Due to the large number of muscles around the hip, bursae can be found in abundance in this area. Some of the more notable muscles include the gluteus maximus, piriformis muscle, medius and minimus. Some people can have as many as nine bursae in the hip area, and each individual bursae can be a source of pain.  

Why does Hip Bursitis Occur? 

Bursae have numerous nerve endings and are particularly prone to injury or irritation. Sudden impacts such as falling from a bicycle or tripping whilst running can damage the bursae, leading to pain.  

The most common cause of bursitis is excessive activity, without allowing sufficient time for recovery. The bursae are unable to cope with sustained periods of compression or friction, and this can lead to pain and inflammation.  

Repetitive activities such as running or jumping are known to place significant stress on the hips, which is why allowing time for recovery is so important.  

Symptoms of Hip Bursitis 

As the severity of the condition can vary between individuals, so too can the symptoms. In general, you may notice the following symptoms: 

• Hip pain – typically most acute when rising from a seated position, or whilst climbing stairs.  
• Swelling in the hip area 
• Stiffness or difficulty moving the hip 
• Throbbing or aching sensation in the hip, particularly after exercise or rigorous activity 

 Physiotherapy for Hip Bursitis 

The team at Orthosports Physio have a wealth of experience with hip bursitis. With the right guidance and support, physio treatment can help to reduce pain, improve mobility and prevent future flare-ups.  

Treatment may encompass: 

Pain Management – Working in close collaboration with you, a pain management plan will be developed. Exercises, stretches and other techniques centred around reducing pain and improving function will be recommended.  

Exercise Therapy – Exercises such as squats, bridges and leg raises can be particularly beneficial for hip bursitis. Your physio will develop a tailored exercise program designed to improve strength, flexibility and range of motion in the hip. 

Manual Therapy – Joint mobilisation and massage may be used to reduce pai nand improve mobility. 

Education – Your physiotherapist can provide you with helpful tips and advice which can reduce the incidence of future flare-ups. This may include information on proper posture, safe movements and hip safe training advice.  

Prevention – Following treatment, you may wish to schedule regular appointments with your physio in order to improve overall hip and lower body strength, flexibility and stability. This will help to reduce the stress placed on your hips and lower the risk of future injuries or flare-ups.  

Experiencing Hip Pain or Injury? Call Orthosports Today 

Hip bursitis can be a painful and debilitating condition, but it is treatable with physiotherapy. Our experienced physiotherapists can provide you with a tailored treatment plan centred around reducing pain, improving mobility and preventing future flare-ups. Whether you are an athlete, active individual or amateur sportsperson, physiotherapy treatment will help you get back to doing the things you love without pain or discomfort. 

Contact Orthosports Physio today to book an appointment at our Concord physio clinic.