How is hip bursitis diagnosed?
Hip bursitis is diagnosed based on the history of outer hip pain, specific areas of tenderness of the outside of the hip, and confirmed by relief with local injection of anesthetic in the doctor’s office. Patients frequently notice pain in the outer hip with stair climbing or descending and tenderness of the hip when lying on the affected side at night. The doctor can localize the tender areas to the location of the bursae of the hip. Occasionally, X-ray tests of the hip are used to rule out other conditions of the bone and joints, such as arthritis. Sometimes, but not always, X-rays can highlight areas of calcium deposits in an inflamed bursa. What is the treatment for hip bursitis? The treatment of any bursitis depends on whether or not it involves infection. Noninfectious or aseptic hip bursitis can be treated with ice compresses, rest, and anti-inflammatory and pain medications. Occasionally, it requires aspiration of the bursa fluid. This procedure involves removal of the fluid wi
