Do you have pain on the lateral side of your leg by your pelvis?
Trochanteric bursitis is painful swelling in the bursa that cushions the upper, outside edge of your femur.
What is trochanteric bursitis?
Trochanteric bursitis is a painful swelling near the hip joint, which is a specific type of bursitis.
Bursitis is the inflammation of a small, fluid-filled sac called a bursa, which cushions spaces around bones and other tissues like bubble wrap protecting structures in the body.
The hip joint connects the thigh bone (femur) to the pelvis, with the greater trochanter being the pointed upper, outside edge of the femur. Trochanteric bursitis occurs when the bursa covering the greater trochanter is damaged, inflamed, or irritated.
If you are experiencing hip pain, especially if it persists or worsens over a few weeks, it is advisable to contact our office immediately to alleviate your suffering.
Symptoms and Causes
What are the symptoms of trochanteric bursitis?
The most common symptom of trochanteric bursitis is hip pain, which may manifest:
On the outer side of the hip.
In the side of the upper thigh.
In the buttock.
When lying on the affected side.
When standing up after sitting.
When moving or using the hip, particularly during activities like walking upstairs.
What causes trochanteric bursitis?
Trochanteric bursitis can be caused by anything that irritates or damages the bursa near the greater trochanter. Common causes include:
Poor/Improper sleep foundation: Sleeping on a bed that is too old not suitable for long periods can cause pressure points that result and swelling of the bursa.
Repetitive motions: Activities like lifting heavy boxes, climbing stairs frequently, or prolonged standing can lead to bursitis. Sports or physical activities that stress the hips, such as cycling or running, can also cause it.
Hip injuries: Falls, bumps, or prolonged pressure on one hip can result in hip joint injury and bursitis. Sports injuries can also irritate the bursa.
Postural issues: Health conditions affecting the hip joint shape or lower back can exert excessive pressure on the bursa. Conditions like scoliosis, hip bone spurs, leg length discrepancies, and calcium deposits in hip tendons can contribute to bursitis.
What are the risk factors for trochanteric bursitis?
While anyone can develop trochanteric bursitis, certain groups are more susceptible, especially after falls or injuries. Groups at higher risk include:
Athletes.
Individuals engaged in physical or manual labor.
Individuals who have undergone hip surgery.
Poor quality mattresses
People with specific health conditions, such as arthritis (especially inflammatory types like gout and psoriatic arthritis), psoriasis, diabetes, and thyroid disease, are also at a higher risk of bursitis.
Prevention
How can trochanteric bursitis be prevented?
The key to preventing trochanteric bursitis is to avoid overusing the hips:
Learn proper posture and techniques for sports or work activities.
Gradually introduce new exercises or activities to prevent injuries.
Avoid prolonged lying on one side on a poor foundation.
Take breaks during repetitive tasks.
Consider replacing your mattress if it is older than 1 - 2 years.
Treatment
At Medspine, we provide treatment routinely to patients with trochanteric bursitis.
The treatments are performed manually to reduce fluid pressure within the bursa and then with supplemental lidocaine injections for additional comfort. For most patients, the pain and pressure will be reduced following the very first visit, and will be nearly resolved within 5 visits. Individual results may vary depending on how long you have been affected and if you change the ergonomic condition which perpetuated your issues. Call our office now to kick your trochanteric bursitis to the curb once and for all at 702-530-2225.
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