Get Back to Walking Without Pain: A Guide to Hip Bursitis

Hip bursitis, also known as trochanteric bursitis or greater trochanteric hip bursitis, is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in the outer part of the hip. If you’ve been diagnosed with this condition or suspect you might be dealing with it, understanding how to manage your symptoms and prevent flare-ups is key to staying active and maintaining your quality of life.

In this blog, we’ll explore what causes hip bursitis, how it affects your mobility, and the most effective strategies for hip bursitis relief—from lifestyle changes to treatment options.

What Is Hip Bursitis?

Hip bursitis occurs when one or more of the bursae—fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints—become inflamed. The most commonly affected area is the bursa at the greater trochanter, a bony prominence on the outside of your hip. This condition is often referred to as greater trochanteric bursitis or simply greater bursitis hip.

There are other bursae near the hip joint that can also be affected, including those near the groin, although these are less commonly involved.

Common Symptoms of Greater Trochanteric Bursitis

Symptoms typically include:

• Sharp or burning pain on the outer hip

• Tenderness to touch near the greater trochanter

• Pain that worsens with walking, climbing stairs, or lying on the affected side

• Increased discomfort after prolonged activity or periods of inactivity

Many patients also report difficulty walking with bursitis of the hip, especially after sitting for long periods or sleeping on the affected side.

Causes and Risk Factors

Trochanteric bursitis can develop for a number of reasons, including:

• Overuse or repetitive motion (common in runners and cyclists)

• Hip injuries or trauma

• Poor posture or gait

• Underlying conditions such as arthritis, spine disorders, or leg length discrepancies

• Tightness in the hip muscles or iliotibial (IT) band

Aging is also a factor, as bursae become less resilient over time.

Lifestyle Tips for Managing Hip Bursitis

If you're living with greater troch bursitis, there are practical steps you can take to reduce inflammation and improve your comfort:

1. Modify Activities

Reduce or avoid high-impact activities that trigger your pain, such as running or climbing stairs. Instead, try low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling. When walking, take shorter strides and use supportive footwear.

2. Use Ice and Heat Therapy

Apply ice packs to the outer hip for 15–20 minutes several times a day to help with swelling. Heat can be useful for relaxing tight muscles around the hip.

3. Stretch and Strengthen

Stretching the IT band, glutes, and hip flexors can relieve pressure on the bursa. Gentle strengthening exercises can support the joint and prevent future irritation. A physical therapist can guide you in a safe, personalized plan.

4. Adjust Sleep Position

Try sleeping on your back or the unaffected side with a pillow between your knees. This can help minimize direct pressure on the inflamed bursa on the greater trochanter.

Hip Bursa Treatment Options

When home care isn’t enough, a variety of medical treatments can provide lasting hip bursitis relief:

Conservative Treatments

• Physical therapy: Focuses on strengthening and correcting imbalances

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Help manage pain and swelling

• Assistive devices: Temporary use of a cane can relieve pressure

Injections

A corticosteroid injection directly into the trochanteric bursa can reduce inflammation quickly and effectively.

Advanced Therapies

For chronic or severe cases, treatment for trochanteric bursitis of the hip may include:

• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections

• Shockwave therapy

• Surgical intervention (rarely needed)

When to See a Specialist

If your symptoms persist or worsen despite rest and self-care, it’s time to consult a physician. At Coastal Orthopedics, our hip specialists can provide a tailored trochanteric bursa treatment plan that addresses your unique needs—helping you return to the activities you love with less pain.

Relief Is Possible

Living with hip bursitis doesn’t mean giving up your favorite activities. With the right care and modifications, many patients find long-term relief and improved mobility.

Whether you’re just beginning your treatment journey or seeking expert guidance for chronic pain, the team at Coastal Orthopedics is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward lasting relief.

➡️ Watch the Video: Bursitis of the Hip (Trochanteric Bursitis)