Bursae are small sacs throughout the body that act as cushions to help reduce friction. When these become inflamed, bursitis develops. In the hip, there are two main bursae that often become inflamed. The first is found at the bony point of the hip called the greater trochanter (trochanteric bursitis). The second is found on the inside of the hip (often called hip bursitis). Bursitis primarily causes pain in the location of the bursa. Pain can worsen at night when lying on the affected side or when getting up after being seated for a long period.
Surgery is rarely required for bursitis. Instead, your doctor may recommend activity modification, NSAIDs, or physical therapy. If those treatments fail, a steroid injection may help.
