Key Takeaways
- Hip bursitis, also known as trochanteric bursitis, is inflammation of the fluid-filled sac that cushions the outer hip joint.
- Rest, activity modification, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication are usually the first line of treatment and can bring relief within a few weeks.
- Certain daily habits, like sitting with legs crossed or sleeping on the affected side, can slow healing and worsen symptoms.
- Persistent pain that does not improve after a week or two of home care is a sign it may be time to see a specialist.
- Corticosteroid injections and regenerative options like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy can offer more targeted relief when rest and medication are not enough.
- Modern Edge Sports & Orthopedic Medicine provides sports injury care for patients throughout Jeannette, PA, and the greater Pittsburgh area, and patients can request an appointment for an evaluation.
What Is Hip Bursitis?
Hip bursitis, medically known as trochanteric bursitis, occurs when the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the bony point at the outside of the hip, becomes irritated and inflamed. This condition is one of the more common sports injuries seen in runners, cyclists, and anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet.
Symptoms typically include:
- Pain on the outside of the hip that may spread down the thigh.
- Discomfort that worsens when lying on the affected side.
- Pain that increases after standing up from a seated position.
- Aching that gets worse with prolonged walking, climbing stairs, or squatting.
Early Treatment Methods for Reducing Inflammation and Pain
The good news is that hip bursitis often responds well to conservative, non-surgical treatment. According to the Cleveland Clinic, rest is typically the most important first step, since continuing the activity that irritated the bursa in the first place can prevent healing.
Early treatment options include:
- Resting the hip and avoiding the specific movement or position that triggers pain.
- Applying ice to the area for 15 to 20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling.
- Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen or naproxen, used cautiously and for a limited time.
- Using a cane or crutches temporarily to reduce pressure on the hip while healing.
The Role of Rest, Stretching, and Activity Modification
Once the initial inflammation begins to settle, gentle stretching and hip-strengthening exercises can help prevent the bursitis from returning. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, physical therapy focused on stretching the outer hip and strengthening the surrounding muscles is a key part of recovery and long-term prevention. A physical therapist can guide patients through a safe progression of exercises rather than returning to full activity too soon.
Everyday Habits That May Worsen Hip Bursitis Symptoms
Small daily habits can make a noticeable difference in how quickly hip bursitis improves. Common habits that may slow healing include:
- Sleeping on the affected side, which puts direct pressure on the inflamed bursa.
- Sitting with legs crossed for long periods, which can strain the hip.
- Standing with weight shifted unevenly onto one hip.
- Continuing high-impact activities, like running or repetitive stair climbing, before the hip has had time to heal.
Making a few adjustments, such as placing a pillow between the knees while sleeping or taking standing breaks during long periods of sitting, can meaningfully reduce strain on the hip during recovery.
When Professional Orthopedic Care May Be Needed
Most cases of hip bursitis improve within a few weeks with home care. However, it is a good idea to see a sports medicine specialist if:
- Pain does not improve after one to two weeks of rest and home treatment.
- Pain is severe enough to interfere with daily activities or sleep.
- There is noticeable swelling, redness, or warmth around the hip, which could indicate infection rather than simple bursitis.
- Symptoms keep returning despite rest and activity changes.
At Modern Edge Sports & Orthopedic Medicine, evaluation typically includes a physical exam and, when needed, in-office diagnostic ultrasound or other imaging to rule out other causes of hip pain.
Corticosteroid Injections
For patients whose symptoms do not respond to rest and activity changes, corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation and provide more targeted relief, often within a few days of treatment.
PRP Therapy for Persistent Cases
When bursitis keeps returning, or when the surrounding tendons are involved rather than the bursa alone, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy offers another option. PRP uses a concentrated portion of a patient's own blood to support the body's natural healing response in the irritated tissue. It's often considered for patients who have already tried rest, physical therapy, and injections without lasting results, and Dr. Wong tailors each PRP plan to the individual rather than applying a single protocol.
Treatment Options Available for Patients in the Pittsburgh Area
Modern Edge offers a full range of non-surgical treatment options for hip bursitis, from activity modification guidance to corticosteroid injections and regenerative treatments. Because the practice focuses exclusively on non-operative orthopedic care, treatment plans are built around getting patients back to their normal activities without unnecessary downtime.
Get Hip Pain Relief with Modern Edge Sports & Orthopedic Medicine
Hip bursitis can sideline even simple daily activities, but most patients see real improvement with the right combination of rest, activity changes, and, when needed, targeted treatment. Modern Edge Sports & Orthopedic Medicine offers experienced, non-surgical care to help patients recover and get back to the activities they enjoy.
Dr. Michael Wong is board-certified in family medicine and sports medicine and completed his sports medicine fellowship at UPMC, where he trained alongside the teams caring for the Pittsburgh Penguins and Steelers as well as local school and college athletic programs.
If hip pain has lasted more than a week or two, or keeps coming back, Dr. Michael Wong and the Modern Edge team can help identify the cause and build a treatment plan. Request an appointment to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I heal hip bursitis quickly?
Resting the hip, applying ice, avoiding the activity that triggered the pain, and using over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication are the fastest ways to start reducing inflammation. Most patients notice improvement within a few weeks when these steps are followed consistently.
What is the best treatment for hip bursitis that does not improve with rest?
When rest and home care are not enough, a corticosteroid injection can provide more targeted relief by reducing inflammation directly at the site of the bursa. For cases that keep returning, PRP therapy may be considered. Physical therapy is often recommended alongside either option to help prevent the bursitis from coming back.
What exercises help relieve hip bursitis pain?
Gentle stretching of the outer hip and iliotibial (IT) band, along with exercises that strengthen the hip and gluteal muscles, can relieve pressure on the bursa and support long-term recovery. A physical therapist can recommend a safe, personalized routine.
How long does hip bursitis usually take to heal?
Most cases improve within a few weeks to a few months with rest and conservative treatment. Recovery time can vary depending on the underlying cause and how consistently activity modifications are followed.
Where can I find a sports medicine doctor near me for hip pain?
Modern Edge Sports & Orthopedic Medicine provides sports injury care for patients throughout Jeannette, PA and the greater Pittsburgh area. Scheduling a consultation is the first step toward an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
