Dallas Trochanteric Bursitis Surgeon

Trochanteric bursitis involves inflammation of the trochanteric bursa, a fluid-filled sac cushioning the greater trochanter (the bony prominence on the outer side of the upper thighbone or femur). This painful condition caused by inflammation is often due to repetitive friction from the iliotibial band (band of tissue on the outer thigh) or underlying hip problems such as arthritis in the hips, rheumatoid arthritis, or bone spurs.

The bursa’s normal role is to allow smooth movement of muscles and tendons while providing cushioning to the bone. However, when these factors lead to friction and irritation, the resulting inflammation can cause issues— including but not limited to: significant pain, tenderness, and limited range of motion in the hip. In some patients, lateral hip pain may also be evaluated to rule out related conditions like hip labral tears or other soft tissue injuries, depending on symptoms and activity level.

A young man in Dallas with trochanteric bursitis.

Trochanteric Bursa Treatment Options & Procedure

It’s important to know that surgery isn’t always the first option for trochanteric bursitis. In fact, many patients find relief through conservative treatments designed to alleviate pain and promote healing — these may involve, but are not limited to;

Rest and Activity Modification: You will want to avoid activities that worsen the pain, especially those involving overuse or sports that strain the hip.
Ice and Heat Therapy: Be sure to apply ice to reduce inflammation in the bursa overlying the greater trochanter and heat to soothe muscles.
Anti-inflammatory Medications: Your practitioner will recommend over-the-counter or prescription medications, including corticosteroid injections, to manage pain and swelling.
Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen hip muscles and improve flexibility, which help reduce friction and support hip care.

When conservative options prove ineffective, and pain persists, or significantly limits function in hip patients, trochanteric bursitis surgery may be considered.

Trochanteric bursitis surgery, typically a minimally invasive bursectomy with possible iliotibial band release, involves surgical removal of the inflamed bursa over the greater trochanter. It aims to relieve lateral hip pain and improve mobility. This minimally invasive procedure uses a fiber optic instrument consisting of a video camera and light source, and it can also address chronic inflammation that has been resistant to non-surgical treatment. Recovery following trochanteric bursitis surgery requires adherence to guidelines provided by your Dallas trochanteric bursitis doctor, including pain management and monitoring for complications. Our office is also providing general guidelines below that can aid in your recovery after a hip surgery or joint replacement.

FAQS on Trochanteric Hip Bursitis

This condition can be influenced by several risk factors. We find that repetitive activities, such as running or cycling, can contribute to the condition, as can prolonged pressure on the hip from activities like prolonged sitting or lying on one side. It is also important to note that a previous hip injury or trauma may also increase the likelihood of developing hip bursitis.

Preventing this condition involves adopting practices that minimize stress and friction on the hip— this means that maintaining a healthy weight is crucial because excess weight places increased pressure on the hip joint and the greater trochanteric bursa. It’s also very important to avoid prolonged periods of pressure on the hip, so it is best to avoid sitting or lying on one side for extended durations, especially on the affected side where fluid-filled sacs present inflammation.

The recovery time for the trochanteric bursa varies depending on the severity of the condition and the treatment approach. With conservative treatment, such as rest, ice, and physical therapy, many individuals experience improvement within some weeks.

However, it is important to note that if the trochanteric bursa condition is chronic or severe, it may take several months to achieve full recovery. In cases where a surgical procedure is necessary, the recovery period is typically longer; in this case, rehabilitation will be guided by your fellowship-trained, highly skilled Dallas trochanteric bursitis surgeon.

Physical therapy plays a significant role in both the treatment and rehabilitation of trochanteric bursitis, often following a detailed diagnosis, including review of medical history and imaging such as an X-ray. Exercises are often prescribed to address the underlying causes and alleviate symptoms, aiming to relieve pain and improve function in the outer portion of the hip. The common exercises would include, but are not limited to: stretches to improve flexibility in the iliotibial band, hip flexors, and other surrounding muscles. Strengthening exercises, particularly for the hip abductor muscles, are also vital to help stabilize the hip joint and reduce stress on the bursa.

** Range-of-motion exercises are also incorporated to restore normal hip movement and enhance life quality by improving mobility in the recovery area.

What to Eat or Drink Following Your Hip Bursitis Procedure

Light foods, such as toast, plain rice, or oatmeal are recommended during the first 48 hours of your recovery.
As you ease back into your normal diet, be aware that heavy, greasy meals may cause nausea. Prescription pain medications may exacerbate this feeling.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and supplement with electrolyte beverages where necessary.

Caring for Incisions

Do not remove the surgical dressing that was applied by your doctor. Our office will remove the dressing at your follow-up appointment.
Mild swelling and light bleeding are common after trochanteric bursitis surgery. If your dressing becomes saturated, do not remove it. Instead, cover it with sterile gauze and call our office.
To prevent infection, ensure the incision site remains dry. Starting 24 hours post-surgery, you may shower, but keep the incision site covered with a waterproof barrier. Do not immerse the incision in water. Avoid baths, pools, and hot tubs until cleared by your doctor.
Do not apply creams, ointments or lotions to the incision area unless authorized by your doctor.
Stitches or sutures are typically removed 1–2 weeks after surgery. After removal, you may take showers and get the incision area wet, but you will still need to refrain from immersion until cleared by your doctor.

Pain and Medication Guidelines

*The following are general aftercare guidelines for the use of pain and anti-inflammatory medications. Your doctor will provide specific instructions as they pertain to your health, prescriptions, and procedure.

Local anesthesia from the procedure will begin to wear off after 6-10 hours following your procedure. During this time, you may begin to feel pain and discomfort. Pain and swelling around the hip, groin and thigh typically peak around day 2-3.
Take all prescription pain medications as directed. Do not take more than the recommended dose. If you feel that your medication is ineffective at dealing with your pain, contact our office.
Prescription pain medications often cause drowsiness and dizziness along with nausea and constipation. If you experience severe side effects, contact our office for guidance. An over-the-counter stool softener may help with constipation, and taking medications with a light meal can reduce nausea.
Should nausea or vomiting become severe, contact our office as soon as possible.
You should not attempt to operate a motor vehicle or other machinery while taking prescription pain medications.
If you are at an increased risk of blood clots, let your doctor know. A low-dose aspirin regimen may help reduce your risk.

Your Mobility Following Trochanteric Bursitis Surgery

Below are some general guidelines for safe movement during recovery:

For the first week, keep the operative leg elevated slightly to minimize swelling and discomfort. Place pillows under the knee or calf for support, but do not place them directly under the hip.
Use crutches or a walker as directed. Your doctor will provide guidance regarding weight-bearing.
Refrain from activities that may aggravate the surgical site, such as laying on the operative side, prolonged walking or climbing stairs without support.
Avoid movements that extend the leg outward (abduction) or excessive twisting for at least four weeks.
Do not drive until your doctor has cleared you to do so.
You may return to work one week after discharge. Upon returning to work, discuss accommodations that allow you to work in a sedentary position until cleared by your doctor.

Proper Usage of Your Brace and Crutches

Use crutches or a walker for 2-6 weeks or as directed by your doctor. You will need to limit weight-bearing to protect the hip joint. Do not make adjustments to your aids unless adjustments are authorized at your initial follow-up. Our office can help you if adjustments are needed between visits.
If a brace is provided, wear it as directed to maintain joint alignment.

Use a Cold Pack for Swelling

You may begin the use of cold therapy immediately following your procedure. Apply a cold pack, ice or prescribed cooling device to the operative area for 20-30 minutes every 2-3 hours for the first week.
Do not apply cold therapy directly to your skin. Doing so can result in frostbite. Instead, place a protective layer, such as a towel or plastic bag, between the cold source and skin to prevent hip injury.

Movement and Stretching Guidelines

Start engaging in gentle exercises, such as ankle pumps and quadriceps contractions, within 24-48 hours after your procedure as directed by your doctor. Refrain from flexion, rotation, or abduction unless specified by your Dallas trochanteric bursitis specialist.

Perform prescribed exercises 2-3 times each day to promote circulation and prevent stiffness.

Engage in regular ankle movements throughout the day to reduce the risk of blood clot formation.

Our office can assist you in setting up an appointment for physical therapy if your doctor has ordered ongoing care.

CALL US IF…

Reach out right away if you notice:

214 265 3271

Severe, persistent pain that does not improve with medication or radiates through your upper arm.
Fever, chills, infection, redness, off-color discharge.
Severe swelling, tingling, numbness or skin discoloration, particularly in the hand, fingers or forearm.
Respiratory distress or chest discomfort.
Bleeding or persistent fluid leakage at the incision site.

Suffering From Trochanteric Bursitis? Dr. Thornton, Your Dallas Trochanteric Bursitis Surgeon, Can Help!

In addition to trochanteric bursitis, Dr. Thornton provides care for patients experiencing cartilage damage, abnormal joint contact, and abnormal joint contact around the hip.

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