Pain on the outside of the hip is a common reason people seek medical advice. One possible cause is hip bursitis, a condition involving irritation of one of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that help reduce friction around the hip joint.

Although hip bursitis can be uncomfortable, many people improve with appropriate treatment and activity modification.

What Is a Bursa?

A Bursa is a small fluid-filled sac that cushions tissues around joints.

Around the hip, bursae help reduce friction between muscles, tendons and bone during movement.

When a bursa becomes irritated, it can become painful and inflamed.

Common Symptoms

People with hip bursitis may experience:

  • Pain on the outside of the hip
  • Pain when lying on the affected side
  • Tenderness over the hip
  • Pain when walking
  • Pain climbing stairs
  • Discomfort after prolonged standing

Symptoms often develop gradually.

What Causes Hip Bursitis?

Common contributing factors include:

  • Repetitive movement
  • Increased activity levels
  • Prolonged walking
  • Muscle weakness
  • Previous hip injury
  • Changes associated with ageing

Sometimes no obvious cause can be identified.

How Is Hip Bursitis Diagnosed?

Assessment usually includes:

  • Medical history
  • Physical examination
  • Assessment of hip movement

Depending on your symptoms, imaging such as X-rays or ultrasound may be recommended to help exclude other conditions.

Treatment Options

Management depends on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms.

Treatment may include:

  • Activity modification
  • Physiotherapy
  • Stretching exercises
  • Strengthening exercises
  • Pain management strategies
  • Corticosteroid injection when clinically appropriate
  • Surgical assessment in selected cases

Most people do not require surgery.

Can Hip Bursitis Be Prevented?

Helpful strategies include:

  • Gradually increasing exercise
  • Maintaining hip strength
  • Stretching regularly
  • Wearing supportive footwear
  • Maintaining a healthy weight

When Should You Seek Medical Advice?

Arrange an assessment if:

  • Pain lasts several weeks
  • Pain affects sleep
  • Walking becomes difficult
  • Symptoms continue despite rest

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is hip bursitis the same as arthritis?

No. Hip bursitis affects the soft tissues surrounding the hip, whereas arthritis affects the joint itself.

  • Can I still walk with hip bursitis?

Many people can continue walking, but activity may need to be modified depending on symptoms.

  • Will hip bursitis go away on its own?

Some cases improve with conservative management, while others require further assessment and treatment.

Book an Orthopaedic Consultation

Persistent hip pain should be assessed to determine the underlying cause. Dr Parminder J. Singh provides comprehensive assessment and management of hip conditions, offering treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs.