Hip Bursitis

The signs & symptoms of Bursitis are:

• Pain on the outside of the hip often referring to the outside of the thigh.
• Pain on weight bearing that often increases causing a limp.
• Pain laying on the hip at night.
• Weakness or decreased balance on that leg.
• A ‘waddling’ walking pattern which is often unnoticed in the early stages.

When the Bursa becomes irritated or inflamed, it is termed Bursitis. Hip Bursitis (or Trochanteric Bursitis) is commonly associated with hip pathology or changes within the Gluteal tendons and needs a full and thorough assessment. It commonly occurs due to your Gluteal muscles not working properly (due to previous or current hip or back issues), or due to the mechanics of your walking or running style.

• Commencing a good pain management plan immediately. A painful bursa will have less chance of responding to a progressive exercise program. You may be initially referred to a Sports Physician to assess the full degree of your Bursitis (and eliminate other contributing factors) to develop a specific pain management plan with specific time frames.
• Hip/Gluteal stability exercises to strengthen the hip and pelvic muscles.  These need specific and careful instruction.  We recommend an individual assessment of how to perform the correct hip strengthening exercise. If your hip is painful, you will be given very basic exercise to teach you how to ‘engage’ or ‘turn on’ your Gluteal muscles in sitting and standing. You will be progressed based on achieving good quality function around your hip based on your level of strength.
• A painful hip does not respond to increased load either with walking or exercises with heavy resistance. You will be given guidelines for what your painful hip can tolerate for the best long term outcome.
• Walking with a limp is not advised and you must consult a Professional Immediately.