Hip bursitis: what it is and what to do

The discomfort may be sharper with direct pressure, lying on the affected side, climbing stairs, or rising after sitting. Similar pain can also come from nearby tendons, the hip joint, or the lower back, so the location alone does not confirm the diagnosis.

A bursa reduces friction where soft tissue moves over bone. Repeated loading, a sudden increase in walking or running, prolonged pressure, a fall onto the side of the hip, or altered movement can irritate this tissue. Pain may spread down the outer thigh, but it does not usually extend below the knee unless another problem is contributing.

A clinician may check hip and back movement, muscle strength, walking pattern, and the exact tender area. Imaging is not always needed; it may be considered when the examination suggests another cause or symptoms do not settle as expected.

Temporarily reduce activities that clearly provoke the pain, while continuing comfortable movement. Avoid sleeping directly on the sore side; a pillow between the knees may reduce strain when lying on the other side. Cold or warmth can be used according to comfort, with a cloth protecting the skin.

A physiotherapist can tailor hip-strengthening and movement work, then guide a gradual return to hills, stairs, sport, or longer walks. A clinician can discuss whether anti-inflammatory treatment or an injection is suitable, taking account of other medicines and health conditions.

Arrange urgent assessment if the hip area is hot, markedly red, rapidly swelling, or accompanied by fever or feeling very unwell. Seek prompt help after a significant fall if you cannot bear weight, or if the leg looks shortened or unusually rotated.

Book a routine review when pain keeps returning, disrupts sleep despite changing position, limits walking, or is not improving with sensible activity changes. New numbness, leg weakness, or loss of bladder or bowel control requires urgent medical attention because these features are not explained by uncomplicated bursitis.

Ask which structure appears to be painful, whether your back or hip joint may be involved, and which movements are safe to continue. You can also ask what progress should look like, when physiotherapy is appropriate, and what benefits or drawbacks apply to medicines or an injection in your situation.