Hip Bursitis

The hip is a ball-and-socket joint formed by the head of the femur (thigh bone) fitting into the socket on the pelvis. The joint is surrounded by ligaments, tendons, and muscles that provide support and movement. Bursae are located throughout the hip to reduce friction between moving structures. The most commonly affected bursae in hip bursitis are the trochanteric bursa (located over the greater trochanter on the side of the hip) and the iliopsoas bursa (situated near the front of the hip).

When these bursae become irritated or inflamed, they produce symptoms such as localized pain, tenderness, and limited range of motion. Trochanteric bursitis typically causes pain on the outer side of the hip, while iliopsoas bursitis may present as groin pain.

Hip bursitis can develop for a variety of reasons. Repetitive stress or overuse, common in athletes and individuals who engage in activities such as running, climbing stairs, or prolonged standing, can cause cumulative trauma to the bursae. Direct trauma, such as a fall onto the hip, may also trigger inflammation.

Other contributing factors include poor posture, uneven leg lengths, biomechanical issues such as abnormal gait, or underlying conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and spine disorders. Middle-aged and older adults, as well as individuals with sedentary lifestyles or weak hip muscles, may be at higher risk.

In most cases, hip bursitis can be managed effectively without surgery. A personalized treatment plan is essential to address the root cause of inflammation and support healing.

• Activity modification and physical therapy – Reducing or temporarily stopping activities that worsen symptoms can help alleviate pain. Guided physical therapy is recommended to stretch tight structures, strengthen surrounding muscles, and correct biomechanical imbalances. Strengthening the gluteal and core muscles can reduce pressure on the hip and improve long-term joint stability.
• Pain management and supportive care – Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), icing, and supportive measures such as cushions or orthotics can relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Corticosteroid injections may be used to provide short-term symptom relief, especially in cases of persistent inflammation.

At Vitality Orthopedics and Biologics, we offer advanced regenerative therapies aimed at accelerating healing and reducing inflammation at the cellular level. These options are particularly beneficial for patients who prefer to avoid corticosteroids or are seeking natural solutions to promote tissue repair.

Red light therapy

Also known as low-level light therapy (LLLT), red light therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to penetrate tissues and stimulate cellular activity. It has anti-inflammatory effects and may help relieve pain and stiffness associated with hip bursitis. Treatments are painless and non-invasive, making them a popular option for patients seeking conservative care.

Laser therapy

Laser therapy works by delivering targeted energy to affected tissues, promoting blood flow and stimulating the body’s natural healing mechanisms. This therapy can reduce inflammation, enhance tissue regeneration, and improve pain tolerance over time. Laser treatment may be integrated into a broader therapy plan including physical rehabilitation.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)

HBOT involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. The increased oxygen supply promotes tissue repair, reduces swelling, and supports immune function. For patients with chronic bursitis or slow-healing inflammation, HBOT can enhance the body’s ability to recover more efficiently.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy

PRP therapy uses a patient’s own blood, which is processed to concentrate platelets rich in growth factors. These platelets are then injected into the area of inflammation to support tissue repair and reduce pain. PRP has been shown to be effective in treating chronic tendon and bursa inflammation by encouraging the regeneration of healthy tissue.

Bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC)

BMAC is derived from the patient’s own bone marrow and contains stem cells, growth factors, and healing proteins. When injected into the inflamed hip bursa, BMAC can promote the regeneration of damaged tissues and help modulate inflammation. This therapy is most appropriate for individuals with recalcitrant or chronic bursitis who have not responded to more conservative options.

BPC 157 peptide therapy

BPC 157 is a synthetic peptide with regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties. It has shown promise in promoting tendon and ligament healing, making it a potential treatment for chronic bursitis. It can be administered orally or by injection and is believed to work by improving blood flow, reducing oxidative stress, and supporting cell repair mechanisms.

Choosing the right treatment for hip bursitis depends on several factors, including the severity of symptoms, duration of inflammation, patient age, activity level, and overall health. During your visit to Vitality Orthopedics and Biologics, we perform a thorough evaluation to identify the root cause of your symptoms and tailor a plan that aligns with your lifestyle and treatment goals.

For many patients, starting with conservative therapies and progressing to regenerative options offers the best balance between symptom relief and long-term healing. Our team will guide you through each step of the process, ensuring that you are informed, comfortable, and supported throughout your recovery.=