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Trochanteric Bursitis
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> Hip Pain > Trochanteric Bursitis
Trochanteric Bursitis
Information about Trochanteric Bursitis
Trochanteric bursitis is a common disorder that affects the (lateral) side of the
hip or hips. By definition, bursitis is the swelling of the bursa, a small fluid
sac that releases fluid to allow for smooth motion between bones, tendons, ligaments
and muscles. The human body has many of bursae that serve prevent or decrease friction
between two surfaces that move in opposite directions. When the bursa becomes inflamed
or swollen, problems arise and it will hurt when the bursa needs to move across
a bone.
The trochanter is the hipbone formed at the end of the femoral neck (the femur bone,
or thighbone). Each trochanter has a bursa on its outer side, and when one or both
of those becomes inflamed, trochanteric bursitis may develop.
In addition to the hip, bursitis is frequently found in the knee, elbow and heel.
The condition is discovered more commonly in women than men. Trochanteric bursitis
usually strikes people when they are middle-aged or elderly.
Causes of Trochanteric Bursitis?
Overuse of the trochanteric bursa and or an inflammation of the bursa may cause
trochanteric bursitis. Other possible causes of the condition include:
- A direct fall on the side of the hip
- Repetitive movements
- Prolonged or excessive pressure to the hip area (bucket car seats may aggravate
the problem)
- Some infections such as staphylococcus and tuberculosis and diseases like gout and
arthritis increase are associated with trochanteric bursitis
- Underlying surgical wire, implants or scar tissue in the hip area
- Differences in leg length
Symptoms of Trochanteric Bursitis?
The overriding symptom of trochanteric bursitis is pain in the thigh and trochanter
area. The pain may increase over time and it may last for months, even years. The
pain may be more intense when you are lying on your side. In long-term cases, you
may not be able to pinpoint the exact location of the pain.
People suffering from trochanteric bursitis may not be able to walk at all because
of the pain. If they are able to walk, it will most likely be with a limp.
Your doctor will need to perform a physical examination in order to diagnose the
condition. It is important to rule out other sources of the pain before making a
diagnosis. He or she will place pressure on the great tronchanter to see if that
causes discomfort. In addition, the doctor will ask about your past medical history.
X-rays of the hip or hips may also help to confirm the diagnosis. If you suffer
from other forms of bursitis or tendon disorders, your doctor may also look for
another condition, in addition to trochanteric bursitis, called fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia
is a common rheumatic syndrome that causes pain and weakness in the muscles.
Treatment of Trochanteric Bursitis?
The first step in treating trochanteric bursitis is to rest the area temporarily
and to decrease activity. You will want to protect the area from any further aggravation
or injury by keeping pressure off the hip. In addition, your doctor may recommend:
The uses of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen
help decrease the pain and swelling.
Stretching exercises with a trained physiotherapist are usually helpful. Additionally,
a deep massage may be performed. Icing the area will also help relieve pain.
- Injections of lidocaine and cortisone
People who have trouble walking may find a cane helpful. A foot lift is also recommended
if there is a notable difference in the length of the two legs.
Surgery for Trochanteric Bursitis?
Surgery is rarely recommended but may be necessary if the above conservative treatments
fail to treat the condition. Usually, surgeons will only perform surgery for trochanteric
bursitis if they find an obvious reason for the pain and conclude that surgery will
help treat the condition. Surgery may consist of releasing the iliotibial band and
removing calcified tissue. The iliotibial band is made up of a group of fibers that
run along the outside of the thigh.
Trochanteric bursitis due to underlying conditions like arthritis or gout are harder to treat and
may recur more frequently. Doctors recommend in these cases to avoid activities
that caused the bursitis in the first place.
Mr. Jig Patel FRCS is an Orthopaedic Surgeon based in central London. If you would
like any further information about treating Trochanteric Bursitis, please contact us to arrange a consultation.
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