Trochanteric Bursitis

Overview

Trochanteric Bursitis is a common condition characterized by inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac near the greater trochanter of the femur. The condition causes pain in the outer part of the hip, especially during movement or pressure. While treatable, early diagnosis and management are essential to prevent chronic discomfort and reduced mobility.

Introduction

Trochanteric Bursitis is a prevalent cause of hip pain in individuals of various age groups. The bursa serves as a cushion to reduce friction between muscles, tendons, and bones. When inflamed, it can lead to significant discomfort. According to studies in India, the condition is frequently observed in women, middle-aged individuals, and athletes due to repetitive stress or trauma to the hip joint.

Symptoms

The common symptoms of Trochanteric Bursitis include:
– Pain: Localized pain on the outer side of the hip, which may radiate to the thigh.
– Tenderness: Soreness over the greater trochanter.
– Swelling: Mild inflammation in the affected area.
– Worsened Pain: Pain exacerbates during activities like climbing stairs, standing up from a seated position, or lying on the affected side.
– Reduced Mobility: Difficulty in hip movement due to discomfort.

Causes

The condition can result from several factors, such as:
1. Repetitive Stress: Activities involving overuse of the hip joint, like running or cycling.
2. Injury: Direct trauma to the hip or falls.
3. Improper Posture: Misalignment or imbalance in walking or standing.
4. Medical Conditions: Underlying issues like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or leg length discrepancies.
5. Surgery: Post-operative complications from hip surgery, including joint replacement.
6. Obesity: Increased weight puts added pressure on the hip joint, aggravating inflammation.

Treatment

Effective management of Trochanteric Bursitis involves:

1. Conservative Treatments:
– Rest: Avoid activities that aggravate the condition.
– Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs to reduce inflammation and pain.
– Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and inflammation.
2. Physical Therapy:
– Focused exercises to strengthen the hip muscles and improve flexibility.
– Techniques like ultrasound therapy or manual therapy to accelerate healing.
3. Injections:
– Corticosteroid injections directly into the bursa to reduce severe inflammation.
4. Advanced Therapies:
– Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy for tissue regeneration.
5. Surgical Intervention:
– Rarely required, but includes bursectomy (removal of the inflamed bursa) in chronic or refractory cases.

Prevention and Risk Factors

Prevention:
– Maintain Healthy Weight: Reducing pressure on the hip joint.
– Ergonomic Modifications: Using proper footwear and maintaining posture.
– Strengthening Exercises: Regular hip and core muscle exercises to reduce strain.
– Warm-Up Routine: Stretching before physical activities to prevent injuries.

Risk Factors:
– Age and Gender: Middle-aged women are at higher risk.
– Occupational Hazards: Jobs involving repetitive movements or prolonged standing.
– Athletes: Sports requiring repetitive hip motion, like running or cycling.
– Pre-existing Conditions: Rheumatoid arthritis, leg length discrepancies, or lumbar spine issues.

Insights from Sancheti Hospital

At Sancheti Hospital, we offer a comprehensive approach to managing Trochanteric Bursitis. Our key features include:
1. Accurate Diagnosis: Advanced imaging techniques such as MRI and ultrasound ensure precise identification of the affected area.
2. Customized Treatment Plans: Our team of physiotherapists and orthopaedic specialists creates tailored rehabilitation programs for faster recovery.
3. Minimally Invasive Treatments: Options like PRP therapy and corticosteroid injections minimize discomfort and downtime.
4. Patient Education: Guidance on posture correction, ergonomic modifications, and prevention strategies.
5. Holistic Care: Addressing underlying conditions such as arthritis or biomechanical imbalances to prevent recurrence.

Trochanteric Bursitis, while painful, is a manageable condition with proper care and treatment. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and prevent chronic issues. At Sancheti Hospital, our experienced team ensures patients receive the best care with cutting-edge techniques and personalized attention. If you’re experiencing persistent hip pain, consult our specialists to regain your mobility and quality of life.