How to Reduce Inflammation That Causes Hip Bursitis

Hip bursitis is caused when the bursa of the hip becomes inflamed. This condition is normally not infectious, but can become so. A bursa is a fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between bodily tissues. The bursae can become inflamed due to injury or strain on the surrounding tissues. Medical treatment for extreme inflammation is to drain the fluid using a needle and syringe, and then send the fluid to a laboratory to be examined further for abnormalities and infections. If an infection is found, antibiotics are administered along with an anti-inflammatory medication such as cortisone. Many doctors recommend rest and cold compresses to reduce inflammation.

Things You'll Need

• 10 to 15 ice cubes
• 1 ziplock bag
• Soft, thin cloth

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Instructions

Cold Compress

• 1

  Insert the ice cubes into the ziplock bag.

• 2

  Lie on your side with the inflamed hip on top.

• 3

  Wrap the bag in the soft, thin cloth.

• 4

  Place on the hip at the site of inflammation.

• 5

  Apply for 15 to 30 minutes, and then take the compress off for 15 to 30 minutes. For example, if the cold compress is applied for 15 minutes, it should then be removed for 15 minutes. Match the on time with the off time. Repeat