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Effective Home Management Strategies for Hip Bursitis

Hip bursitis, a common inflammatory condition affecting the bursae (fluid-filled sacs) around the hip joint, can cause pain, stiffness, and limited mobility, significantly impacting daily activities. While professional intervention from physiotherapists is valuable for managing hip bursitis, there are also several effective strategies that individuals can implement at home to alleviate symptoms and promote healing. Join us as we explore practical tips and exercises to manage hip bursitis from the comfort of your home.


Before diving into home management strategies, it's essential to understand the underlying mechanisms and symptoms of hip bursitis. Bursae serve as cushions between bones, tendons, and muscles, reducing friction and facilitating smooth movement. When bursae become inflamed due to repetitive stress, overuse, or trauma, it can result in hip bursitis. Common symptoms include pain on the outer hip or thigh, tenderness, swelling, and difficulty with activities such as walking or climbing stairs.


Effective Home Management Strategies:

  1. Rest and Activity Modification: Rest is crucial for allowing inflamed bursae to heal and reducing aggravation of symptoms. Avoid activities that exacerbate pain, such as prolonged standing, walking long distances, or high-impact exercises. Instead, opt for gentle, low-impact activities such as swimming, cycling, or yoga, which can promote circulation and mobility without placing excessive strain on the hip joint.

  2. Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs to the affected hip can help reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and numb the area. Wrap a cold pack or a bag of frozen vegetables in a cloth and apply it to the hip for 15-20 minutes several times a day, especially after activities that aggravate symptoms. Be sure to use a barrier, such as a cloth or towel, to prevent direct contact between the ice pack and the skin to avoid ice burns.

  3. Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation associated with hip bursitis. Follow the recommended dosage instructions and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or medical conditions that may contraindicate the use of NSAIDs.

  4. Hip-Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening the muscles surrounding the hip joint can help improve stability, support proper biomechanics, and reduce stress on the bursae. Incorporate gentle hip-strengthening exercises into your daily routine, such as clamshells, hip abduction and adduction, hip bridges, and leg raises. Start with low resistance and progress gradually as tolerated, focusing on proper form and controlled movement.

  5. Stretching and Mobility Exercises: Gentle stretching and mobility exercises can help alleviate stiffness, improve range of motion, and prevent muscle imbalances that contribute to hip bursitis. Perform stretches targeting the hip flexors, hamstrings, quadriceps, and iliotibial (IT) band, holding each stretch for 20-30 seconds and repeating several times. Incorporate dynamic movements, such as leg swings or hip circles, to promote flexibility and mobility.

  6. Posture Correction: Poor posture can exacerbate hip bursitis by placing undue stress on the hip joint and surrounding structures. Maintain good posture throughout the day, whether sitting, standing, or walking, by aligning the ears, shoulders, and hips in a neutral position. Use supportive seating and ergonomic aids to minimise strain on the hips and lower back, especially during prolonged periods of sitting or desk work.

  7. Weight Management: Excess body weight can increase stress on the hip joints and exacerbate symptoms of hip bursitis. Maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise to reduce strain on the hips and promote overall musculoskeletal health. Consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalised guidance and support in achieving weight management goals.

  8. Gradual Return to Activity: Once symptoms improve, gradually reintroduce activities and exercises while monitoring for any signs of recurrence or exacerbation. Start with low-impact activities and gradually increase intensity and duration as tolerated, listening to your body and avoiding pushing through pain. Be mindful of proper technique, pacing, and adequate rest periods to prevent overuse and reinjury.


Managing hip bursitis at home requires a multifaceted approach that addresses pain relief, inflammation reduction, muscle strengthening, and lifestyle modifications. By implementing these practical strategies, individuals can effectively alleviate symptoms, promote healing, and prevent future flare-ups of hip bursitis. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a physiotherapist or orthopaedic specialist, for a comprehensive assessment and personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and circumstances. With dedication, patience, and consistency, you can take control of your hip health and regain mobility and function for a better quality of life.


If you have any questions or need personalised advice, feel free to contact us at Urban Physiotherapy. Our dedicated team is here to help you find the most effective strategies for managing your hip bursitis. Reach out to us today for more information!

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