What is it?
It involves inflammation or irritation of the trochanteric bursa located on the lateral hip, superficial to the greater trochanter. A bursa is a small fluid-filled sac that provides a cushion between bones and 
tendons and/or muscles around a joint. These sacs assist in minimizing friction and allowing free movement. Bursa are found around most major joints of the body. The trochanteric bursa of the hip when inflamed or irritated can become very debilitating. Some studies have shown that more than 60% of all hip pain involve trochanteric bursitis.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Pain at the outside of the hip that may radiate into lateral thigh and may result in altered gait mechanics such as limping.
- Increasing pain with compression of bursa or when hip is flexed; therefore can affect sleeping positions
- Tenderness and swelling surrounding the bursa
- Compensatory hip joint or muscular restrictions into the hip and knee
Causes:
- Frequent repetitive hip flexion or stress actions such as running, jumping, squatting or ascending stairs can aggravate the bursa. However, sedentary actions such as prolonged sitting or standing can cause severe pain when transitioning into different positions such as a sit to stand movement.
- Direct trauma to the lateral hip such as a mechanical fall
- Leg length discrepancy, weak hip abductors, ITBS and/or overly tight hip adductors.
Treatment:
- Varies widely, but may include rest, ice, hip abductor strengthening, stretching, soft tissue mobilization, proper shoe wear, proper body mechanics along with an Integration of Physical Therapy, Sports Acupuncture, Integrative Dry Needling, Dynamic Cupping and ART for restoring normal length and tension of involved tissues.
Article by: Ray Roman, PT, DPT, LAc, DOM, SCS, OCS, ATC, CSCS
ProSport Physical Therapy & Performance, 2777 Bristol St., Ste. B, Newport Beach, CA 92626 (949)250.1112
