Options For Treating Hip Bursitis

Physical Activity Modification

Hip bursitis patients may need to undergo certain physical activity modifications to help prevent a recurrence. A physical therapist can typically help with this. Individuals with hip bursitis can learn home exercise programs that help stretch and strengthen their leg muscles. It is important for each patient to consult a physical therapist about the best exercise routine for their body and condition, as overexercising could make the inflammation worse.

If an individual's lifestyle puts them at a higher risk of a recurrence, such as if they work manual labor or are an athlete, their physical therapist may teach them new ways of doing day-to-day tasks that minimize the risk to the hips. When the initial injury has subsided, the therapist might recommend a strengthening and flexibility program to prevent another injury.

Corticosteroid Injection

A corticosteroid injection may be used in cases where the patient's hip is significantly swollen and painful. During this procedure, a small amount of corticosteroid is injected into the bursa, along with local anesthetic. Corticosteroids are a class of medication that mimic the body's adrenaline-related hormones and act as an elevated amount of these hormones in the body. This suppresses the immune system and its inflammatory reaction. In addition to helping with hip bursitis, corticosteroids are also used to treat asthma and arthritis. Prior to an injection, patients should tell their doctor if they are taking any blood thinners. Patients may be asked to stop taking these medications for several days before the injection.