Iliopsoas bursitis

A bursa is defined as a fluid-filled sac or sac-like cavity, especially one countering friction at a joint. When this bursa becomes inflamed it is called bursitis. The inflammation can be a result of friction from the overlying tendons. The iliopsoas bursa separates the muscle or tendon from bone and facilitates movement by reducing friction between the front part of the hip capsule and the iliopsoas (main hip flexor muscle) Iliopsoas bursitis is one of the affections related to hip pain in the front part of the hip.

Iliopsoas bursitis is mainly caused by rheumatoid arthritis, acute trauma and overuse injury. When an acute or chronic occupational trauma happened during sport activities, a bursitis is likely the result of multiple mini-traumas caused by vigorous hip flexion (bending) and extension (straightening). Iliopsoas bursitis is commonly seen in individuals participating in strength training, rowing, uphill running and competitive track and field.

Signs and symptoms

• Pain in the front/inside of the thigh

• Pain radiating into the knee, leg and lower back

• Tenderness of the upper thigh

• Snapping sensation at the front of the hip

• Pain when bending hip passively/against resistance

• Pain is worse during activities

Your physiotherapist will be able to assist in the management of bursitis including pain management, decreasing inflammation, strengthening and stretching exercise programme for the hip.

Source: https://www.physio-pedia.com/Iliopsoas_Bursitis

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