What is Bursitis?

Bursitis of the hip is the most common cause of hip pain.

A bursa is a closed fluid-filled sac that functions as a gliding surface to reduce friction between tissues of the body. "Bursae" is plural for "bursa." The major bursae are located adjacent to the tendons near the large joints, such as the shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees. When the bursa becomes inflamed, the condition is known to as "bursitis." Most commonly, this is a noninfectious condition (aseptic bursitis) caused by inflammation resulting from local soft tissue trauma or strain injury.

Symptoms of common Hip Bursitis

• Pain on the outer side of the hip, which may radiate down the thigh.
• Hip pain when laying on the affected side.
• Pain on the outer side of the hip when walking, running and climbing stairs.

A person suffering from Hip Bursitis will have hip pain over the area of the bursa, but in severe cases this pain may radiate down the leg. The pain will usually be brought on by hip movements such as walking, running, and climbing stairs.

Causes of a Hip Bursitis¹

Most commonly, this is a noninfectious condition (aseptic bursitis) caused by inflammation resulting from local soft tissue trauma or strain injury.

Prevention / Treatment of Hip Bursitis²

The following guidelines are for information purposes only. Seeking professional advice before beginning rehabilitation is recommended. 

The treatment of any bursitis depends on whether or not it involves infection. Noninfectious or aseptic hip bursitis can be treated with ice compresses, rest, and anti-inflammatory and pain medications.

Patients with hip bursitis can often benefit by weight reduction, stretching exercises, and proper footwear for exercise activities. Sometimes physical therapy programs can be helpful. Generally, patients should avoid hills and stairs and direct pressure on the affected hip (sleep on the other side), when possible, while symptoms are present.

Massage Therapy

Soft tissue manipulation of Trochanteric bursitis will take an indirect approach. There is no benefit from applying direct massage to an inflamed bursa, in fact this is contraindicated. However, if the bursa is being irritated by the tightness of surrounding structures, such as the IT Band, Gluteal or TFL then therapeutic massage can be quite effective.³

The Injury Specific therapists at Advanced Alternatives Massage Therapy have experience in addressing myofascial restrictions and trigger points through the use of Neuromuscular and Myofascial Release techniques.

Sources:

1. http://www.physioroom.com/injuries/hip_and_thigh/trochanteric_bursitis_sum.php
2. http://www.medicinenet.com/hip_bursitis/page2.htm
3. Orthopedic Massage / Whitney Lowe