Trochanteric Bursitis
Inflammation or irritation of the trochanter bursa (fluid-filled sac near a joint) at the outside point of the hip is a common condition which causes pain in the hip.
Symptoms of Pain:
- On the outside of the hip and thigh or in the buttock
- When you lie on the affected side.
- When you press in on the outside of the hip
- Worsening during activities such as getting up from a deep chair or exiting a car
- Walking up stairs
Causes:
- Injury to the point of the hip: falling, bumping, or lying on one side for an extended period
- Overuse or injury
- Incorrect posture
- Stress on the soft tissues as a result of an abnormal or poorly positioned joint or bone
- Other diseases or conditions. These may include rheumatoid arthritis, gout, psoriasis, thyroid disease, or an unusual drug reaction. In rare cases, bursitis can result from infection.
- Previous surgery around the hip or prosthetic implants in the hip.
- Hip bone spurs or calcium deposits in the tendons that attach to the trochanter.
Goals of treatment:
- Pain reduction
- Inflammation reduction
- Preserving mobility
- Preventing disability and recurrence
Treatment recommendations may include a combination of:
- Rest
- Splints
- Heat and cold applications
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- Cortisone injections
- Physical therapy
- Surgery
When should you seek medical advice?
Most cases of bursitis improve without any treatment over a few weeks. See your health care provider if you have any of the following signs or symptoms:
- Pain that interferes with your normal day-to-day activities or have soreness that doesn’t improve despite self-care measures.
- Recurrence of bursitis
- Fever or redness, swelling, or warmth in the affected area
- In addition, see your doctor if you have other medical conditions that may increase your risk of an infection, or if you take medications that increase your risk of infection, such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressants.
Prevention:
Prevention is the best cure. Therefore, it is important to avoid or modify the activities that cause the problem. Additional, underlying conditions such as leg length differences, improper posture, or poor technique in sports or work must be corrected.
