The bursa is a sac that protects and cushions your joints, according to Medline Plus of the National Institutes of Health. Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa, which can cause pain, tenderness and a limitation in joint movement. Bursitis of the hip can make walking and performing other physical activities difficult. Bursitis is treated with rest, ice and anti-inflammatory medications. Other treatments include ultrasound therapy, physical therapy and steroid injections into the bursa sac. Many activities can cause bursitis of the hip.
Repetitive Motion
Repetitive motions commonly cause bursitis of the hip, states the Mayo Clinic. Repetitive motions cause bone and other tissues to aggravate the bursa sac and cause inflammation. For the hip, repetitive jumping, walking, squatting or resistance training can cause hip bursitis. Proper warm-up and stretching is important in preventing hip bursitis caused by repetitive physical activity. In addition, the Mayo Clinic states that taking frequent breaks during physical activity can reduce the risk.
Prolonged Sitting
The Mayo Clinic states that prolonged sitting on hard surfaces can cause hip bursitis. The hip bursa sac is located on the outer portion of the hip. Therefore, sitting or lying on the other hip can aggravate the hip bursa sac. A patient can prevent hip bursitis by sitting or lying on a soft surface. In addition, she can frequently change position to prevent excessive pressure on the bursa sac.
Improper Lifting
According to the Mayo Clinic, improper lifting can cause hip bursitis. A patient may have a job that requires lifting, such as working in construction. Improper lifting places extra stress on the bursa in the hips, states the Mayo Clinic. Therefore, people must lift heavy objects with the proper form. This involves keeping the back straight, and bending from the knee and not the hips.
