Hip bursitis treatment is similar to most other types of bursitis treatment. However, with five bursae possibly causing the problem, it is more difficult to determine the exact cause and location of the bursitis. Therefore, it is fortunate most types of bursitis can be given a general treatment.

General Hip Bursitis Treatment

The most common treatment for bursitis is the application of the R.I.C.E. method accompanied by NSAIDs. R.I.C.E. stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. NSAIDs are non-steroid anti-inflammatory and pain relieving medications.

Commonly used NSAIDs are ibuprofen or aspirin products the individual has purchased from over-the-counter. A corticosteroid injection may also be administered. This type of injection usually combines a steroid with some type of pain medicine. Ultrasound therapy or fluid aspiration may also be included in the treatment.

More Specific Treatment

When a person has hip bursitis, there are certain activities he or she should or should not do. Here is a list of those activities:

What You Should Do:

1. Rest the affected hip as much as possible.
   
   
2. Apply ice pack compression to injured area for 15 -20 minutes, three to four times on a daily basis for as long as pain exists. This can be done by using crush ice in a plastic bag or a using a bag of frozen vegetables. Use a towel to cover the ice pack. Do not leave on for more than 20 minutes, as it can cause frostbite.
   
   
3. Take NSAIDs to help decrease pain and swelling, unless medical conditions indicate otherwise. Carefully read the label and follow the instructions given by the manufacturers.
   
   
4. Get a corticosteroid injection. However, be careful not to over exert the hip until the doctor says the bursa is completely healed and ready. 
   
   
5. Consider physical therapy and massage therapy treatments in addition to the R.I.C.E. and other general treatments once the bursa starts to heal. These can help to increase blood flow to the area, as well stretch and strengthen the muscles and tendons.

What You Should Not Do:

1. Sleep on side with bursitis. 
   
   
2. Do activities that make the pain worse, such as walking up stairs or sitting on a hard chair. 
   
   
3. Sit or stand for long periods of time, especially on hard surfaces.
   
   
4. Do not bend at the hips, if possible.