Hip bursitis is a common cause of outer hip pain that affects people across different age groups, particularly those who are active, middle-aged, or spend long hours standing or walking. In Singapore, this condition is often seen among individuals with repetitive strain from work, exercise, or joint conditions like arthritis. Recognising symptoms early can help reduce the risk of flare-ups and long-term discomfort.
What is Hip Bursitis?
Hip bursitis is a condition where one or more small fluid-filled sacs near the hip joint become irritated or inflamed. These sacs normally help reduce friction between muscles, tendons, and bones during movement. When inflamed, they can cause pain on the outer side of the hip, especially when walking, climbing stairs, or lying on the affected side. While not usually serious, the discomfort can affect daily activities and may require targeted treatment to improve mobility and reduce symptoms.
Causes of Hip Bursitis
Hip bursitis can develop due to physical stress, impact, or joint-related changes. Common causes include:
Repetitive movement or overuse: Activities such as running, stair climbing, or cycling can irritate the hip, especially after a sudden increase in activity levels.
Falls or direct impact to the hip: A bump or fall onto the side of the hip can inflame the bursa, even if the injury seems minor.
Joint changes or bony growths: Conditions like osteoarthritis or bone spurs can create friction near the bursa, leading to irritation.
Leg length differences: Uneven leg length can affect how you walk, placing extra strain on one side of the hip.
Symptoms of Hip Bursitis
Pain on the outer hip area: A burning or aching sensation typically develops on the outside of the thigh and may extend towards the knee.
Movement-related discomfort: Activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or lying on the affected side often worsen discomfort, while rest typically brings relief.
Stiffness and local tenderness: The hip area may feel stiff, especially upon waking, and gentle pressure over the outer hip can cause discomfort.
Treatment Options for Hip Bursitis
For patients with hip bursitis that does not improve with rest or initial management, an orthopaedic surgeon may recommend targeted interventions. These typically include:
Image-Guided Corticosteroid Injections: An anti-inflammatory injection may be administered directly into the affected bursa under ultrasound guidance. This helps reduce inflammation and relieve pain, especially in moderate to severe cases.
Minimally Invasive Bursectomy: If symptoms persist despite conservative treatment, surgical removal of the inflamed bursa may be considered. This procedure is typically performed arthroscopically, using small incisions to minimise recovery time.
Treatment of Underlying Joint Conditions: If bursitis is associated with hip osteoarthritis, bone spurs, or tendon disorders, these may be addressed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. This may include joint injections, tendon repair, or corrective procedures.
Referral for Post-Intervention Rehabilitation: Following clinical treatment, patients are often referred for physiotherapy to support healing, improve mobility, and reduce recurrence risk.
Managing Hip Bursitis
- Avoid high-impact activities such as running or jumping during flare-ups to prevent further irritation.
- Use proper sleeping positions, avoiding the affected side and placing a pillow between the knees for support.
- Limit prolonged sitting or standing by changing positions regularly to reduce stiffness.
- Maintain a healthy body weight to minimise stress on the hip joint.
- Wear supportive footwear and return to activity gradually as symptoms improve.
When to See a Specialist
While mild cases of hip bursitis may improve with rest and basic care, certain situations warrant evaluation by an orthopaedic specialist:
- Pain that persists beyond a few weeks, despite conservative treatment or medication
- Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or lying on one side due to ongoing discomfort
- Recurrent flare-ups that interfere with daily activities or physical function
- Visible swelling or warmth around the outer hip, especially if accompanied by fever
- No clear improvement with physiotherapy or injections
Conclusion
Hip bursitis is treatable, and many individuals see improvement with the right clinical care. If your symptoms persist or interfere with daily movement, an orthopaedic consultation can help guide appropriate next steps.
Schedule a consultation with our Orthopaedic Hip & Knee Surgeon to explore personalised treatment options.
