Bursa is a cushion filled with fluid (same fluid found in joints) situated between tendons and bones to reduce the friction effects of movement on the tendons. In the hip region these structures are found in many spots but the Trochanteric bursitis remains the most common among the rest.
This bursa is located on the lateral (outer) side of the Hip between the tendons of Gluteal muscles and the Greater Trochanter ( bony ridge of the Femur bone).
Bursitis is inflammation of the bursa. Trochanteric Bursitis is a common cause of hip pain when it gets inflamed. A direct trauma to the lateral aspect of the hip joint or activities which subjects the bursa to repetitive stresses and overuse such as running, climbing stairs, standing for a long time and biomechanical alterations (i.e. limping on one side) or sacroiliac joint dysfunction are causative factors.
Signs and symptoms include pain felt in the lateral aspect of the hip. It is painful upon pressure and it disturbs sleeping if the patient lays on the affected side. It is mainly painful with attempts to flex the hip ( i.e. climbing stairs and getting out of car).
Treatment will focus on refraining from aggravating activities and physiotherapy.
Physiotherapy intervention includes:
- ICE application to control inflammation. It is most effective in the first 48 hours after the onset of pain.
- Transverse Deep Friction over the site of the Trochanteric Bursa.
- Stretching exercises for the Iliotibial Band.
- Ultrasound therapy.
- Shockwave Therapy (mainly used in chronic cases).
- Taping.