Understanding Hip Bursitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Hip bursitis is one of the most common causes of pain on the outside of the hip.
Many patients describe symptoms such as:
- Pain when lying on one side
- Pain walking long distances
- Discomfort climbing stairs
- Tenderness over the outer hip
- Pain during exercise
The condition can affect athletes, active adults, and individuals who are simply trying to stay mobile and independent.
While the term hip bursitis is commonly used, it is important to understand that outer hip pain may involve multiple structures around the hip.
This is one reason why obtaining an accurate diagnosis is so important.
What Is A Bursa?
A bursa is a small fluid-filled structure that helps reduce friction between tissues.
Bursae are located throughout the body and are commonly found near:
- Tendons
- Muscles
- Bones
- Joints
Their purpose is to help structures move smoothly during activity.
What Is Hip Bursitis?
Hip bursitis refers to irritation involving one of the bursae located near the hip.
The most commonly discussed bursa is located near the outer aspect of the hip around the greater trochanter.
When this area becomes irritated, patients may develop:
- Pain
- Tenderness
- Activity-related discomfort
- Difficulty sleeping on the affected side
Symptoms can range from mild to severe.
What Causes Hip Bursitis?
Several factors may contribute, including:
Repetitive Activity
Walking, running, and sports participation may increase stress on the hip.
Prolonged Standing
Certain occupations require extended periods on the feet.
Sports Participation
Activities such as:
- Running
- Pickleball
- Tennis
- Golf
- Hiking
may place additional stress on the hip.
Biomechanical Factors
Movement patterns and muscle imbalances may contribute.
Previous Injuries
Past injuries may alter how forces are distributed through the hip.
Often, multiple factors are involved.
Common Symptoms Of Hip Bursitis
Patients may experience:
- Outer hip pain
- Tenderness when touching the hip
- Pain walking
- Pain climbing stairs
- Pain exercising
- Pain after prolonged activity
- Difficulty sleeping on the affected side
Symptoms are often aggravated by direct pressure over the outer hip.
Why Does My Hip Hurt When I Sleep On My Side?
One of the most common complaints associated with hip bursitis is:
"I can't sleep on that side anymore."
Pressure placed directly over the irritated structures may increase discomfort and make side sleeping difficult.
This symptom frequently brings patients into the office for evaluation.
Is Hip Bursitis The Same As GTPS?
Not exactly.
Many patients use the terms interchangeably, but there is an important distinction.
Hip Bursitis
Refers specifically to irritation involving a bursa.
Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS)
Refers to a broader group of conditions affecting the outer hip.
Many patients diagnosed with hip bursitis may actually have a combination of tendon-related and soft tissue conditions that fall under the umbrella of GTPS.
Hip Bursitis vs Hip Arthritis
Patients often confuse these conditions because both may cause hip pain.
Hip Bursitis
Usually causes pain along the outside of the hip.
Hip Arthritis
Typically causes pain within the joint and is often felt in the groin.
Because symptoms can overlap, proper evaluation is important.
Who Gets Hip Bursitis?
Hip bursitis may affect:
- Active adults
- Athletes
- Runners
- Walkers
- Pickleball players
- Golfers
- Individuals with physically demanding jobs
Women are commonly affected, although the condition can occur in anyone.
How Is Hip Bursitis Diagnosed?
A comprehensive evaluation typically includes:
- Medical history
- Physical examination
- Functional assessment
- Movement evaluation
- Review of symptoms
Diagnostic studies may include:
- X-rays
- MRI
- Ultrasound
- Additional imaging when appropriate
The goal is to determine which structures are contributing to symptoms.
Treatment Considerations
Treatment recommendations depend on:
- Symptom severity
- Functional limitations
- Activity goals
- Imaging findings
Potential treatment discussions may include:
- Physical therapy
- Strengthening programs
- Activity modifications
- Exercise progression strategies
- Interventional procedures
- Regenerative medicine discussions
- Surgical consultation when appropriate
The best treatment strategy is individualized.
Can You Continue Exercising?
Many patients remain active while managing hip bursitis.
The appropriate approach depends on:
- Symptoms
- Activity type
- Functional limitations
- Individual goals
The objective is often to help patients remain active while addressing the factors contributing to symptoms.
When Should You Seek Evaluation?
You may benefit from evaluation if:
- Outer hip pain persists.
- Sleeping on your side becomes difficult.
- Walking aggravates symptoms.
- Exercise participation is limited.
- Stairs become painful.
- Previous treatment has not provided sufficient improvement.
Understanding the source of symptoms is often the first step toward improvement.
The Dr. Peaches Perspective
Dr. Peaches believes that patients deserve an accurate diagnosis and a clear explanation of their symptoms.
Not all outer hip pain is the same.
The objective is to identify the structures involved, understand how symptoms affect quality of life, and develop a treatment strategy tailored to the individual.
Whether the goal is returning to golf, pickleball, hiking, travel, exercise, or simply sleeping comfortably, treatment should focus on helping patients maintain the activities they enjoy.
The mission remains:
Help people stay in the game.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is hip bursitis?
Hip bursitis refers to irritation involving a bursa located near the hip.
Why does my hip hurt when I sleep on my side?
Pressure placed over the affected area may aggravate symptoms and make side sleeping uncomfortable.
Is hip bursitis the same as hip arthritis?
No.
Hip bursitis and hip arthritis involve different structures and often cause different symptom patterns.
Is hip bursitis the same as GTPS?
Not exactly.
GTPS is a broader diagnosis that often includes conditions affecting structures around the outer hip.
Can athletes develop hip bursitis?
Yes.
Hip bursitis and related conditions commonly affect active individuals and athletes.
Should I bring prior imaging to my consultation?
Yes.
Imaging studies and treatment records provide valuable information during the evaluation process.
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Request a Consultation
If hip pain is limiting your ability to sleep, walk, exercise, compete, or enjoy daily activities, an expert evaluation may help identify the source of your symptoms and determine which treatment pathways may be appropriate for your individual situation.
When available, prior imaging studies and treatment records can provide valuable information during the evaluation process.