Hip Bursitis Relief – Aspiration, Physical therapy And More

The bursa is a sac filled with fluids which is responsible for cushioning joints and allowing for smooth motion between two surfaces. The term hip bursitis refers to an ailment where the bursa becomes inflamed. The result is pain, swelling and a limitation on one’s range of motion in the affected joint.

Hip bursitis can manifest in individuals of all genders and ages; most common in athletes (especially those that participate in sports that involve running), hip bursitis can result from injuries (such as falling on one’s upper thigh) as well as surgical procedures such as hip replacement.

Hip Bursitis relief

Diagnosing hip bursitis is relatively straightforward and treatments for bringing about relief will vary depending on the individual in question and intensity of the ailment, those most common methods of achieving hip bursitis relief including the following:

Ice

Most medical professionals recommend the use of ice after any vigorous activities and exercises that might lead to an inflamed hip bursa; a cold pack will prove essential for reducing swelling and contending against pain when applied to a sore hip.

Drugs

There are numerous over the counter medications that can be used to overcome the symptoms of hip bursitis; the key is to locate anti-inflammatory drugs that are likely to safely and positively impact one’s condition such as aspirin, Celebrex and ibuprofen.

While most doctors tend to prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, severe cases of hip bursitis will sometimes require some sort of corticosteroid to accelerate the process of reducing inflammation. Often, anti-inflammatory medication for hip bursitis relief is prescribed alongside antibiotics for a more comprehensive healing experience.

Aspiration

There are times when one’s hip bursa is swollen to such a significant level that it becomes necessary to drain the bursa with a needle. This option is rarely utilized; but when prescribed, the doctor will also include a cortisone injection in the treatment.

Physical therapy

Many a hip bursitis patient has attested to the positive impact that exercise, especially stretching, can have on the symptoms of bursitis, typically by strengthening the muscles and tendons and, hence, allowing them to glide more optimally without attracting the pain connected to hip bursitis.

In most cases, individuals suffering under hip bursitis are encouraged to seek out the services of a physical therapist that can best educate them on the low impact exercise regimens that are likely to provide the best results for hip bursitis. When approached correctly, physical therapy will not only increase one’s flexibility but their range of motion even while protecting the body against future manifestations of bursitis.

Surgery

While rarely prescribed there are situations that might warranty the use of surgery to deal with hip bursitis. The type of surgical procedure utilized will depend on the individual in question and the source of one’s ailment. A bursectomy will involve essentially removing the affected and inflamed bursa.

The iliotibial band release procedure is fairly complex and will involve essentially repairing affected tendons, while Osteotomy of the greater trochanter involves shaving a few centimeters off a specific bone with the aim of alleviating the friction and stress that generates pain.

Rest

Any activities, sports or otherwise, that not only cause pain as a result of hip bursitis but tend to aggravate the bursa’s inflammation should be avoid. When symptoms of hip bursitis flare up, it is essential that one stay off their feet. The affected area should be allowed to receive as much rest as possible. Elevating the hips and thighs is also recommended to prevent blood from pooling in the pelvic area.

Often an individual’s rate of recovery from hip bursitis will depend upon the severity of the problem; any rigorous actions that exert undue pressure on those areas affected by hip bursitis such as standing for long periods of time will inhibit the healing process.

While rest is recommended, sedentary lifestyles are typically discouraged; even a short walk can prevent stiffening of the joints.