Hip Bursitis Treatment
Hip ConditionsHip bursitis, most commonly trochanteric bursitis, is a condition where the fluid-filled sac on the outer point of the hip becomes inflamed and painful.
Reviewed by Thurairaj Manoharan, Physiotherapist • Last reviewed: February 2026
What is Hip Bursitis?
Hip bursitis, most commonly trochanteric bursitis, is a condition where the fluid-filled sac on the outer point of the hip becomes inflamed and painful. The bursa normally acts as a cushion between the hip bone and the tendons and muscles that pass over it, but when irritated, it can cause significant pain on the outside of the hip.
The condition is one of the most common causes of outer hip pain and is especially prevalent among women over the age of 40, runners, and people who spend long hours sitting or standing. It often develops gradually as a result of repetitive friction from the overlying tendons, poor hip muscle control, or altered walking and running patterns.
Many people with hip bursitis notice that the pain is worst when lying on the affected side at night, making it difficult to get a good night's sleep. The pain may also flare up when climbing stairs, getting up from a chair, or walking for extended periods.
Recent research suggests that what was traditionally called trochanteric bursitis is often part of a broader condition known as greater trochanteric pain syndrome, which involves irritation of the gluteal tendons as well as the bursa. This understanding has changed the way the condition is treated, with a greater emphasis on strengthening the gluteal muscles.
At Kinesio Rehab, we take a thorough approach to hip bursitis treatment that addresses not just the pain but the underlying mechanical causes, helping you achieve lasting relief and prevent recurrence.
Key Facts
- Condition
- Hip Bursitis
- Body Region
- hip
- Treatment
- Available at Kinesio Rehab, Putra Heights
- Contact
- WhatsApp Us
What's Included in Our Treatment
- Thorough hip and lower limb biomechanical assessment
- Progressive gluteal and hip stabiliser strengthening programme
- Manual therapy for soft tissue release and pain reduction
- Gait and running pattern analysis and correction
- Dry needling for trigger points in the hip and gluteal region
- Activity modification and load management guidance
- Stretching and flexibility programme for tight hip structures
- Home exercise programme with staged progression
Common Problems We Solve
Reviewed by Thurairaj Manoharan, Lead Physiotherapist
Last reviewed: March 2026
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Dealing with hip bursitis? Contact us to start your recovery.
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Our Hip Bursitis Treatment Process
Assessment
We assess the location and severity of your hip pain, evaluate gluteal muscle strength, hip range of motion, pelvic stability, and observe your walking and movement patterns. We also check for contributing factors such as leg length differences and lumbar spine involvement.
Diagnosis
Based on our clinical examination, we confirm whether your pain is arising from the trochanteric bursa, the gluteal tendons, or a combination of both. We differentiate hip bursitis from other conditions such as hip joint arthritis, referred pain from the lower back, or gluteal tendinopathy.
Treatment Plan
We design a targeted rehabilitation programme that focuses on reducing pain, correcting the biomechanical factors contributing to the bursitis, and progressively strengthening the hip muscles. The plan includes specific activity modifications to reduce irritation of the bursa during recovery.
Active Treatment
Treatment sessions combine manual therapy to relieve pain and improve tissue mobility, progressive gluteal strengthening exercises, and movement retraining to correct faulty hip mechanics. We gradually increase load to build the resilience of the hip tendons and muscles.
Recovery & Prevention
We equip you with a long-term exercise programme focused on maintaining gluteal strength and hip stability. We address lifestyle and activity factors that contributed to the condition and provide strategies to prevent recurrence, including guidance on sleeping position, footwear, and exercise habits.
Why Choose Kinesio Rehab for Hip Bursitis
At Kinesio Rehab, we treat hip bursitis using the latest evidence-based approach that goes beyond simply managing pain. Our physiotherapists understand that lasting relief requires addressing the underlying gluteal weakness and biomechanical factors that cause the bursa to become irritated in the first place.
We use a combination of manual therapy, targeted strengthening, and movement retraining that has been shown to produce better long-term results than injections or rest alone. Our clinic in Putra Heights is fully equipped to provide progressive hip rehabilitation for patients of all activity levels.
Whether you are a recreational runner or someone dealing with chronic hip pain that disrupts your sleep, we tailor our approach to your specific needs and goals.
Hip Bursitis — FAQs
What causes hip bursitis?
Hip bursitis is most commonly caused by repetitive friction or pressure on the trochanteric bursa. Contributing factors include weakness in the gluteal muscles, tightness in the iliotibial band, altered walking or running mechanics, prolonged sitting on hard surfaces, and sudden increases in physical activity. It can also develop after a fall or direct impact to the outer hip.
How long does it take for hip bursitis to get better?
With appropriate physiotherapy, most patients notice significant improvement within six to eight weeks. However, complete resolution can take three to six months, particularly if gluteal tendon involvement is present. Consistent adherence to the strengthening programme is the most important factor in achieving lasting relief.
Should I rest completely if I have hip bursitis?
Complete rest is generally not recommended for hip bursitis. While you should avoid activities that aggravate your symptoms, staying active with modified exercises helps maintain muscle strength and promotes healing. Your physiotherapist will guide you on which activities to continue, which to modify, and which to temporarily avoid.
Is hip bursitis the same as gluteal tendinopathy?
Hip bursitis and gluteal tendinopathy are closely related conditions that often occur together. Modern research suggests that many cases previously diagnosed as trochanteric bursitis actually involve degeneration or irritation of the gluteal tendons. The treatment approach is similar for both, focusing on progressive gluteal strengthening and load management.
Where to Get Treatment
Hip bursitis treatment is available at our Putra Heights clinic and through home visits across the Klang Valley and Selangor. Clinic sessions allow access to our full range of strengthening and rehabilitation equipment for optimal hip recovery. We serve Subang Jaya, Shah Alam, Petaling Jaya, Puchong, Cyberjaya, and surrounding areas.
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