What is Bursitis?
A bursa is a small fluid-filled sac that acts to reduce friction between joints. Bursae are normal anatomical structures, and there are over 150 distributed in many areas of the body including the shoulders, knees, hands and feet. The suffix ‘itis’ is Latin for the word inflammation, and is added to the end of a body part in medical terminology to indicate that this structure is inflamed. For example tonsillitis translates to inflammation of the tonsils, and arthritis means inflammation of the joints. Therefore, hip bursitis is the name given to the condition when one of the bursae surrounding the hip joint has become irritated or inflamed.
Symptoms of Hip Bursitis
Patients will often describe hip bursitis as a hot, burning, pinching pain located around the hip joint. Common signs and symptoms include pain when climbing stairs, sitting crossed-legged, or lying on the affected side. Discomfort may also be experienced when walking or standing for prolonged periods of time.
What causes hip bursitis?
There are a number of reasons as to why a patient may develop hip bursitis. The condition will typically present after experiencing blunt trauma from being hit whilst playing sport, or after falling directly onto the hip. It may also occur after a period of sustained pressure to the area, or due to overuse of the joints, muscles or tendons surrounding the bursa. Additionally, there is evidence to suggest that patients suffering from autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus may be predisposed to acquiring bursitis due to the already systemically inflamed state of the body.
Factors that contribute to hip bursitis recovery
In terms of the treatment and management of hip bursitis, it is important to respect that the body goes through a self-healing process that can take some time. This is often dependent on individual factors such as age, fitness, and diet, as well as general health and wellbeing.
How long does hip bursitis last?
Typically, hip bursitis can resolve in 8-10 weeks, however in some cases, pain can persist for up to over 6 months and may require a corticosteroid injection. Unfortunately, bursitis has a high rate of recurrence, but positive outcomes are achievable with the correct management and compliance.
How to treat hip bursitis?
An Osteopath will use a variety of techniques including soft tissue massage, myofascial release, joint mobilisation, and manipulation with the goal of decompressing the hip area. This will ultimately create space to offload pressure surrounding the affected hip, and facilitate the body’s natural healing response. Rehabilitation exercises may be provided to correct any muscular imbalances which could potentially be responsible for predisposing or maintaining the bursitis. Finally, if the situation arises where a patient is not responding as well as expected to treatment, an Osteopath will be able to provide direction and guidance in the referral process in order for the patient to receive the best care possible.
Author: Dr Anjelica D’Alessandri