Trochanteric bursitis is a condition affecting the side of the hip. Bursitis is inflammation of the bursa. Bursae (plural for bursa) are fluid filled sacs that cushion the places where tendons, ligaments, and muscles move over bones. They help prevent or decrease friction. When bursae become inflamed, there is pain whenever the affected part of the body is used.

Several bursa are located around the outer area of the hip, near the portion of the thighbone (femur) called the greater trochanter (tro-KAN-ter). The greater trochanter is a broad, flat area of bone that anchors several large muscles. Inflammation of one of the trochanteric bursa is a common cause of hip pain. Trochanteric bursitis can affect anyone at any age, although it is most common in middle aged or elderly women.

Causes:

• Repetitive stress (overuse) injuries.
• Multiple minor traumatic injuries.
• Lumbar spine disease or scoliosis.
• Leg length discrepancies.
• Rheumatoid arthritis.
• Lying on one side of the body for an extended period of time.
• An acute traumatic incident such as a fall.
• Previous surgery or prosthetic implants in the hip.
• Excessive or prolonged pressure on the hip such as from standing too long.

• Aching pain usually focused just over the point of the hip.
• Pain may radiate down the outside of the thigh as far as the knee.
• Pain is worse when you lie down or roll over on the affected side.
• Climbing stairs, walking, sitting or standing too long may all be painful.
• Pain at night may make sleeping difficult.

• Ice application (15 to 20 minutes, 2 or 3 times a day; do not apply ice directly to the skin).
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen.
• Weight loss to reduce pressure on the hip.
• Using a cane to reduce pressure on the hip.
• Using a lift in your shoe if one leg is markedly different in length than the other.

• Stretching exercises for the lower back and hip muscles.
• Physical therapy and exercises to strengthen the muscles.
• Avoid prolonged standing or repetitive tasks that involve hip muscles.