Hip Bursitis Treatment
Hip bursitis occurs when the bursa – a small fluid-filled cushion near the hip joint – becomes irritated or inflamed. It often causes pain on the outside of the hip, especially when walking, climbing stairs, lying on your side, or after long periods of standing.
At Bucks Osteopathy & Physio, our physiotherapists and osteopaths regularly support people with hip bursitis across our clinics in Amersham, Beaconsfield, and Gerrards Cross. Treatment focuses on easing discomfort, improving hip movement, and helping you stay confidently active.
What Causes Hip Bursitis?
Hip bursitis often develops due to irritation or overload of the tissue around the hip. Common causes include:
- Increased walking, running, or hiking
- Standing for long periods
- Hip muscle tension or weakness
- Changes in exercise routine
- Repetitive movements during work or sport
- Previous hip, back, or pelvic issues
- Reduced movement during sedentary periods
It is also more common in those who spend long hours sitting, and then suddenly increase activity.
Common Symptoms
You may notice:
- Pain on the outside of the hip (over the bony area)
- Pain when lying on the affected side
- Discomfort when climbing stairs or walking uphill
- Tenderness to touch around the hip
- Pain worsening after long walks or standing
- A feeling of tightness through the hips or outer thigh
Symptoms may come and go depending on activity levels.
How We Help at Bucks Osteopathy & Physio
Your practitioner will assess your hip movement, strength, posture, and walking pattern, as well as lifestyle and activity habits. Treatment is personalised to your symptoms and goals.
Treatment may include:
- Gentle hands-on treatment to ease tension in hip and leg muscles
- Joint mobilisation to improve movement in the hip and lower back
- Targeted strengthening for glute and hip stabilising muscles
- Load management advice to reduce flare-ups
- Strategies for returning to desired activities comfortably
- Guidance on pacing, movement and long-term prevention
We build strength steadily – not pushing into irritation – to help support lasting recovery.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
In your first session, your practitioner will:
- Listen to your symptoms and activity levels
- Assess hip movement, strength, and walking / movement patterns
- Explain what may be contributing to your hip pain in clear, simple terms
- Treat using hands-on techniques where appropriate
- Create a tailored home exercise and recovery plan
You’ll leave with clarity, reassurance, and a plan that feels manageable day-to-day.
Why Choose Bucks Osteopathy & Physio?
- Experienced Team Our therapists treat hip bursitis regularly and understand how it affects daily comfort and mobility.
- Personalised, Evidence-Based Care Your treatment and exercise plan is tailored to your needs - no generic printouts
- Local Clinics With Easy Booking Appointments available in Amersham, Beaconsfield, and Gerrards Cross, with online booking for convenience.
Bursitis FAQs
Do I need a scan?
Scans are usually not necessary. We will advise if further investigation is appropriate.
Is walking bad for hip bursitis?
Not necessarily. We’ll help you adjust your activity level and mechanics to avoid irritating the hip.
Should I stretch or strengthen?
A combination is often helpful – we’ll guide you on when and how.
Will it get better on its own?
Some cases improve gradually, but many benefit from targeted strengthening and load management to support recovery.
Can I sleep on the painful side?
We can suggest comfortable sleep positions and pillow support strategies.