Hip Bursitis

In this lesson, you will learn what hip bursitis is, how it occurs, and its symptoms and treatments. Hip bursitis occurs when the outer bursa (a fluid-filled sac) becomes inflamed due to a direct blow or repeated impact. Find more sports injury information at Injuries Main.

Description: Hip Bursitis

On the outside of the hip are two bursae. Bursae are small fluid-filled sacs located between movable parts of the body, especially at joints. In the illustration above, you can see a muscle connecting the pelvis (hip bone) with the femur (thigh bone). Close to the femur are the two bursae we are referring to. The outer bursa can become inflamed from a direct blow or repeated impact. For example:

Practicing butterfly twists and consistently landing on your hips
Repeating the same judo throw multiple times and landing on your hips

Symptoms: Hip Bursitis

Pain on the outside of the hip, which worsens when running (especially on uneven surfaces)
Pain when pressure is applied
Swelling on the outside of the hip
Pain radiating down the thigh while sleeping
Pain when lifting the leg sideways (for example, during a sidekick)

Treatment: Hip Bursitis

Rest until there is no pain
Apply ice to the outside of the hip to reduce inflammation and relieve pain
Run only on flat, even ground (avoid cross-country or freerunning)
Avoid practicing acrobatics or throwing techniques
Consult a doctor

Trainer Advice: Hip Bursitis

Avoid falling on your hip while the bursa is inflamed
If you do not rest sufficiently, pain may persist for weeks or even months
In some cases, a doctor may need to aspirate the bursa (drain fluid with a needle) or administer a steroid injection
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary

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