Pain on the outside of the hip that worsens with movement or pressure is a common complaint among active adults and older patients alike. One of the main causes is hip bursitis, an inflammation of the fluid-filled sac that cushions your hip joint.
Dr. Alexander S. McLawhorn, a leading orthopedic surgeon in New York, New York, and Stamford, Connecticut, specializes in advanced hip procedures. He can treat your hip bursitis to help you return to a pain-free life.
What Is Hip Bursitis?
Hip bursitis happens when a small cushion in your hip, called a bursa, gets irritated and swollen. A bursa is a tiny, fluid-filled sac that helps your hip joint move smoothly. The most common type, called trochanteric bursitis, affects the bursa that sits on the outside of your hip bone.
These bursae work like built-in shock absorbers, keeping your bones, muscles, and tendons from rubbing against each other. When one gets inflamed, it can cause swelling and soreness. You may notice basic activities starting to feel uncomfortable, such as walking or lying down.
What Causes the Inflammation?
Bursitis can develop for several reasons, including:
- Repetitive movements from running, cycling, or stair climbing
- Direct trauma, such as a fall or impact to the hip
- Poor posture or gait issues that place uneven stress on the joint
- Underlying conditions like arthritis or spine disorders
Inflammation is your body’s natural response to injury or irritation. In hip bursitis, increased fluid and immune activity within the bursa create swelling and pain signals that can limit movement.
How It Affects Joint Function
When a bursa becomes inflamed, its cushioning benefits become less effective, causing friction between tissues. Over time, this can lead to:
- Limited range of motion
- Pain during simple activities
- Weakness in the surrounding muscles from reduced use
Expert Care for Lasting Relief
Dr. Alexander S. McLawhorn treats hip bursitis with a personalized approach, ranging from conservative therapies to advanced surgical options when necessary. His expertise in direct anterior hip replacement, hip resurfacing, and robotic-assisted procedures makes him a trusted choice for patients seeking long-term joint health.
If hip pain is disrupting your daily life, schedule a consultation with Dr. McLawhorn in New York at 212-606-1065 or Stamford at 203-705-2113 to discuss the best treatment options for you.
