Hip Bursitis and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition that can affect several joints and the tissues around them. Hip-area pain may occur with inflammation, but outer-hip tenderness can also have mechanical causes. Finger stiffness, hand swelling, joint pain, joint stiffness, or joint swelling can provide useful clues for a clinician. Morning joint stiffness that lasts and recurring symptoms in more than one area deserve attention.

Record which joints hurt or swell, when stiffness appears, and whether movement changes the symptoms. Share this pattern with the clinician managing your rheumatoid arthritis or arrange an assessment if you have not received a diagnosis. Treatment may include an anti-inflammatory medication plan, rehabilitation, or adjustments to existing care; medicines should be selected with your clinician because health conditions and other medicines affect safety.

Contact your care team promptly when new hip pain occurs with increasing swelling, prolonged morning stiffness, or a noticeable change in several joints. Seek urgent help for a hot, very swollen joint with fever, sudden inability to bear weight, or severe pain after an injury.

Does my hip pain fit inflammatory arthritis, outer-hip bursitis, or another problem? Which symptoms should I track between visits? Could my current anti-inflammatory plan need review, and would physiotherapy be suitable during a flare?