Hip Bursitis
Irritation of one of the small, fluid-filled sacs that help reduce friction near the hip. Pain may be more noticeable when lying on the affected side.
On this page
See a doctor now if you have:
- Sudden severe pain
- Inability to bear weight
- Fever with joint pain
- Numbness
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Recent trauma
Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs found near several joints, including the hip, where they help reduce friction between bone and soft tissue. When one of these near the hip becomes irritated, it’s commonly described as hip bursitis, or more precisely, greater trochanteric pain syndrome.
Common symptoms
- Pain over the outer point of the hip, sometimes spreading down the outer thigh
- Pain that’s more noticeable when lying on the affected side at night
- Discomfort with activities like climbing stairs, getting up from a low chair, or walking for longer periods
- Tenderness when pressing directly on the outer hip
What can contribute to it
Repetitive activity, a change in exercise routine, muscle imbalance around the hip, or direct pressure over time are commonly discussed contributing factors, though the exact cause isn’t always clear.
What some people find helpful
Activity modification, addressing muscle strength and tightness around the hip, and adjusting sleeping position (such as a pillow between the knees when side-lying) are commonly suggested starting points. A physiotherapist can assess whether specific exercises are appropriate for your situation.
When to seek an assessment
If outer-hip pain is persistent, worsening, or not improving with simple changes, it’s worth having it properly assessed rather than guessing at the cause — see when hip pain should not be ignored.
One thing to do today
Pick one thing from this page and try it today — small and consistent beats occasional and intense.
Sources
- Placeholder — full citation pending clinical review — To be replaced with a peer-reviewed source before this page leaves draft status.
Related reading
Hip Anatomy Explained
A closer look at the bones, cartilage, muscles, and tendons that make up the hip joint, and how they work together.
Hip Fractures
A break in the upper part of the thigh bone, most often linked to a fall, that needs prompt medical attention — general education on what to know.
Hip Impingement (Femoroacetabular Impingement)
A pattern where the ball and socket of the hip don't glide past each other quite as smoothly as expected, which can cause pinching pain with certain movements.
Hip Labral Injuries
Damage to the ring of cartilage that lines the rim of the hip socket, which can cause catching, clicking, or groin pain.
Next step
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