Treatment & Stretches for Hip Bursitis

Hip bursitis is a condition causing pain in the upper thigh. When the bursa sac over the hip becomes inflamed due to injury or overuse, bursitis results. Here are some common treatments and a great stretch to treat and prevent hip bursitis.

Medication

• Anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or naproxen are commonly prescribed. These can decrease inflammation and reduce bursitis pain.

Diet

• Deficiency in calcium, magnesium and especially vitamin B12 can contribute to inflammation. Eat foods rich in calcium, such as dairy sources like milk, yogurt, cottage cheese and cheeses; magnesium, such as green vegetables, beans, nuts, seeds and whole grains; and B12, such as liver, beef, chicken, pork, fish, eggs and dairy. Supplementation also may be advised by your doctor.

Rest

• In healthy people, bursitis is caused by repetitive motions like running. Bursitis sufferers need to refrain from the activity that caused the inflammation until the pain is gone.

Ice

• Apply ice to the hip. Follow your doctor's direction, but ice is typically applied in 20- to 30-minute increments throughout the day. An ice massage also may be helpful.

Stretch

• The best stretch for people with bursitis is done by lying on the nonaffected side. Gently pull the injured leg across the midline of the body at about a 45-degree angle, in line with the hip joint. For added range of motion, perform this exercise while lying in bed to allow the foot to drop below parallel to the hip. This stretch can be done on both sides to keep the nonaffected joint healthy. Even after the inflammation heals, continue this stretch before and after exercise.