What is hip bursitis?

Hip bursitis, also known as trochanteric bursitis, is the inflammation of the bursa located near the hip joint. Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that act as cushions between bones, tendons, and muscles, reducing friction and allowing smooth movement. In the case of hip bursitis, the bursa involved is usually the trochanteric bursa, located on the outer side of the hip.

What causes hip bursitis?

• Repetitive Stress or Overuse:

  • Activities that involve repetitive stress on the hip joint, such as running, walking, or cycling, can lead to irritation of the trochanteric bursa.

  • Prolonged or repetitive pressure on the greater trochanter, the bony prominence on the outer side of the hip, may contribute to bursitis.

• Trauma or Injury:

  • Direct trauma or injury to the hip, such as a fall or a blow to the hip, can cause inflammation of the bursa.

  • Traumatic events may result in swelling and increased pressure on the bursa.

• Incorrect Exercise Techniques:

  • Performing exercises with improper form or technique can contribute to hip bursitis.

• Muscle Imbalances:

  • Imbalances in the muscles around the hip joint can lead to abnormal stress and friction on the trochanteric bursa.

  • Weakness or tightness in certain muscles may alter biomechanics and contribute to bursitis.

• Bone Spurs:

  • The presence of bone spurs (abnormal bony growths) around the hip joint can irritate the trochanteric bursa, leading to inflammation.

  • Bone spurs can develop as a result of osteoarthritis or other degenerative conditions.

• Hip Surgery:

  • Previous hip surgeries, including hip replacement surgery, may increase the risk of developing hip bursitis.

  • Surgical procedures can alter the biomechanics of the hip joint.

• Inflammatory Conditions:

  • Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or systemic diseases with inflammatory components can contribute to hip bursitis.

  • Inflammation in the body may affect the bursa as well.

• Tight or IT Band Syndrome:

  • Tightness in the iliotibial (IT) band, a fibrous band of tissue running along the outer thigh, may contribute to increased friction and irritation of the trochanteric bursa.

• Leg-Length Discrepancy:

  • Having one leg shorter than the other (leg-length discrepancy) can lead to altered mechanics and increased stress on the hip joint, potentially contributing to bursitis.

It's important to note that multiple factors can interact, and the development of hip bursitis may involve a combination of these factors. Additionally, individual susceptibility varies, and not everyone exposed to the same risk factors will develop hip bursitis.

What is hip tendonitis?

Hip tendonitis, refers to the inflammation of a tendon in the hip region. Tendons are thick cords of tissue that connect muscles to bones, and they play a crucial role in the movement of joints. In the hip, tendinitis often involves inflammation of the tendons around the greater trochanter, usually the gluteus medius and gluteus minimus.

What causes hip tendonitis?

The causes of hip tendinitis are often similar to those of hip bursitis and may include overuse, repetitive stress, muscle imbalances, trauma, or conditions that affect the tendons.

How do the Practitioners at MHP treat hip bursitis/tendinitis?

• Rest and Activity Modification: Resting the affected hip and avoiding activities that worsen symptoms can help reduce irritation of the bursa. Modification of activities that involve repetitive hip movements, such as running or prolonged standing, may be recommended.

• Exercise: Patients may be instructed to perform specific stretching and strengthening exercises at home as part of their self-care routine.

• Chiropractic care: Can aid in identifying and addressing underlying factors contributing to hip bursitis, such as muscle imbalances, biomechanical issues, or leg-length discrepancies, is important for long-term management.

• Laser therapy: Anti-inflammatory effects, promoting a tissue healing response, and pain reduction

• Shockwave Therapy: Can stimulate blood flow, reduce pain and promote tissue regeneration. Best suited for tendinopathies that have persisted for 3+ months.

• Massage therapy: Massage therapy can be a beneficial adjunct to the treatment of hip bursitis, as it may help alleviate muscle tension, improve circulation, and promote overall relaxation. While massage therapy may not directly address the inflammation of the bursa, it can help manage associated symptoms and contribute to a more comprehensive approach to care

• Orthotics: In some cases, orthotic devices, such as shoe inserts, may be recommended to address biomechanical issues and improve foot and hip alignment.