Quite often people are told the have “hip bursitis” (inflammation of a bursa) based solely on palpation or poking some area. But is that truly the case? In many instances, people are not in fact suffering with bursitis, rather some other condition.

To begin with, a bursa is a small fluid filled structure whose purpose is to reduce friction between muscles, tendons, or bony attachments. These bursa are found throughout the body and quite frequently are blamed for pain but are not the cause.

How do I know if the bursa is problem?

While palpation may get you in the ballpark, the quality and type of pain reported among other factors will answer this question. Individuals experiencing pain from a bursa will report constant pain that does not necessarily change with activity. It may be strong and present even sitting. Comparatively, pain from a muscle or tendon is likely change based on body position or movement.

Another key element is how the pain is described. Words like aching, stiffness, a sharp feeling are often used to describe the feeling people have when dealing with a bursa issue. Individuals may also note some swelling as well.

There are actually 3 different bursa in the hip region. The most commonly implicated is called the trochanteric bursa, which sits on the outer protuberance of the hip. It protects the muscles on the side of the hip from rubbing on a bony area called the greater trochanter. When this bursa is inflamed it may be problematic to sleep on that side.

Time to ask yourself the questions above about what you are feeling. Is it constant? Does it feel like the descriptors above?

Regardless, are you more concerned with giving the problem a name or getting rid of the pain? Most I suspect are more interested in #2.

So, what is done to help get rid of the bursitis?

For starters, looking to eliminate the friction that caused the problem in the first place. This could be stretching a tight muscle. Or it could be that strengthening of a weak muscle is indicated. The next step is to get or remain active to avoid negative effects from inactivity. Ice or heat may be helpful but not a requirement.

What to do now?

Make the decision to get help and no longer suffer with hip pain. If you would like some more information on whether your issue is hip bursitis or something else, then please request you personal phone call or Discovery Session to learn more.