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What Is Chronic Trochanteric Bursitis?

Chronic trochanteric bursitis is a chronic form of inflammation that affects the bursa around the trochanter, which is found on the human thighbone. This kind of inflammation affects both physically and sedentary individuals. The bursa is the sac of synovial fluid that is found in between bones and muscles. This part of the body helps to cushion and lubricate the bones and muscles, reduces friction, and absorbs shocks that may occur from sudden movements. Bursae are located near the body's joints. They can become inflamed for a number of different reasons.

Symptoms of Chronic Trochanteric Bursitis

Typical symptoms of this kind of bursitis include hip pain, and tenderness and swelling in the area. The hip pain usually occurs when the patient is walking or is in motion, and the tenderness and swelling may affect the individual's ability to lie comfortably on the affected side.

Causes of Chronic Trochanteric Bursitis

Injury to the area is a common cause of chronic trochanteric bursitis. These injuries include falls. Occasionally the bursa becomes inflamed because the injury damages it to the extent that it does not fit in the gap between the bone and the muscle. In addition, repetitive motion injury may also be a cause of chronic trochanteric bursitis. The most common types of repetitive motion that can cause this inflammation are running and walking. Patients who have rheumatoid arthritis may find that this kind of bursitis is a manifestation of this arthritic condition. In other cases, there is no identifiable cause.

Diagnosis of Chronic Trochanteric Bursitis

X-rays and MRIs can be used to help diagnose chronic trochanteric bursitis; however, it is more likely that physicians will palpate the area and locate the source of the pain, conducting range-of-motion tests to determine a diagnosis of this condition. This condition is often difficult to diagnose, however, because it mimics many other painful musculoskeletal conditions.

Treatment for Chronic Trochanteric Bursitis

As long as the bursitis has not become infected, it can be treated with ice, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or injections with steroids. It may also be possible to remove the inflamed bursa with surgery.