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Hip Bursitis vs. Hip Osteoarthritis: The Differences You Need to Know

Orthopedic patients experience hip pain for various reasons, but two of the most common are hip bursitis and hip osteoarthritis. While each condition can cause debilitating pain and discomfort, it is essential to understand their differences to diagnose and treat your symptoms appropriately.

Read more about the distinction between hip bursitis and hip osteoarthritis.

What is Hip Bursitis?

Hip bursitis is caused by inflammation in the tiny fluid-filled sacs, or bursae, that cushion muscles, bones, and tendons from friction around joints. It can be caused by repetitive motions, like running, or by direct pressure, such as kneeling on a hard surface. The most common symptom is a pain in the hip area which can often be mistaken for arthritis.

Hip bursitis pain is usually located at the top of the thigh and may spread to the outer buttock area. Other symptoms include a dull ache, tenderness, and swelling. It is important to note that bursitis pain typically worsens with movement or activity but often improves with rest or elevation of the affected area.

There are two forms of hip bursitis: trochanteric bursitis and iliopsoas bursitis.

Trochanteric bursitis is the most common type and is typically caused by repetitive activities like running or walking. It causes pain outside the hip near where your leg bones join your pelvis.

On the other hand, Iliopsoas bursitis affects the inner part of your hip joint and can be caused by activities that involve leaning forward or turning, such as golf and tennis. Pain is felt in the groin area but may also spread to the upper thigh.

What is Hip Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease caused by the breakdown of the cartilage that cushions and protects the ends of bones in a joint. When this cushioning wears away, it causes pain and loss of movement in the affected area. Osteoarthritis is the standard form of arthritis affecting the hip joint.

Symptoms often start gradually but worsen over time as the condition progresses and more joint cartilage is lost. Common symptoms of OA in the hip include pain that radiates from the groin down to the thigh, stiffness and limited range of motion, popping or grinding sensation when moving the joint and a feeling of instability in the joint.

Some causes of OA include age-related wear and tear, excess weight, sports injuries, and joint instability due to ligament tears. For example, a labral tear in your hip can cause the joint to become unstable and increase your risk of developing arthritis.

How Can a Chiropractor Help?

Chiropractors are skilled health professionals trained to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions. So if you’re suffering from hip bursitis or arthritis, they can help you get back on track to feeling your best.

a) Adjustments:

A chiropractor can help realign the hips and other joints to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

b) Exercise Programs:

A chiropractor can develop an exercise program tailored specifically to your condition, strengthening muscles and ligaments around the joint for improved stability.

c) Massage:

Massaging muscles around the hip can relax the tightness in those areas, reducing inflammation and providing pain relief.

d) Lifestyle Advice:

A chiropractor can advise on lifestyle changes such as posture, diet, and ergonomics that can help reduce the symptoms of hip bursitis or arthritis.

Call Life Giving for the best hip pain treatment in Roswell. Our chiropractors can assess your condition and develop a customized treatment plan so you can get back to feeling your best.

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