09/09/2026
Hip pain is common, but the cause matters because bursitis and arthritis feel different, progress differently, and respond to different care.
Bursitis is the inflammation of a bursa, which is a small, fluid-filled sac that cushions the space between a tendon and a bone. The most common hip bursa sits on the outside of the hip, over the bony point you can feel when you press the side of your hip. When this bursa becomes inflamed, the pain is usually sharp, located on the outer hip, and worst when lying on that side, climbing stairs, or getting up after sitting.
Arthritis in the hip is a different problem. It involves the gradual breakdown of the cartilage (the smooth, slippery surface) inside the hip joint itself. As the cartilage wears away, the bones begin to rub against each other. Hip arthritis pain is usually felt in the groin, the front of the thigh, or deep inside the joint. It tends to be worst with weight-bearing activities and may cause stiffness, especially in the morning.
At Pain and Wellness Group, our doctors evaluate the hip to determine which condition is driving the pain. The approach changes significantly based on the diagnosis. Bursitis often responds well to chiropractic care, Laser and LED Light Therapy, and targeted rehab. Arthritis management focuses on maintaining mobility, reducing inflammation, and building strength around the joint.
