Iliopsoas Bursitis
Iliopsoas bursitis is a condition where the fluid-filled sac (bursa) located near the iliopsoas muscle becomes inflamed. This muscle sits at the front of the hip and plays an important role in lifting the leg and bending the hip. When the bursa becomes irritated, it can cause pain in the front of the hip or groin. Physiotherapy is highly effective in reducing inflammation, restoring movement, and preventing the condition from returning.
What is Iliopsoas Bursitis?
The iliopsoas muscle is a major hip flexor located at the front of the hip joint. It helps lift the leg and allows movements such as walking, running, and climbing stairs.
A bursa is a small fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between tissues, reducing friction during movement.
Iliopsoas bursitis occurs when the bursa located between the iliopsoas muscle and the underlying bone becomes inflamed or irritated. This inflammation can cause pain and restrict normal hip movement.
Causes
Iliopsoas bursitis usually develops due to excess friction or pressure on the bursa.
Common causes include:
- Tightness in the iliopsoas muscle
- Repetitive hip movements during sports or exercise
- Overuse from activities such as running or climbing stairs
- Poor posture or hip biomechanics
- Muscle imbalance around the hip
- Sudden increases in physical activity
When the iliopsoas muscle becomes tight, it can place repeated pressure on the bursa, leading to inflammation.
Symptoms
Symptoms of iliopsoas bursitis are usually felt in the front of the hip or groin area.
Common symptoms include:
- Deep aching pain in the front of the hip
- Pain that may radiate into the groin
- Tenderness when pressing on the front of the hip
- A snapping or clicking sensation during hip movement
- Hip stiffness after sitting for long periods
- Pain when walking, running, or climbing stairs
- Reduced range of motion in the hip
Symptoms may worsen with activities that involve repeated hip movement.
What Should I Do?
If you suspect iliopsoas bursitis, it is important to seek physiotherapy assessment as soon as possible.
In the meantime:
- Avoid activities that increase hip pain
- Reduce high-impact exercises such as running
- Apply ice to the affected area to reduce inflammation
- Avoid prolonged sitting or repetitive hip movements
While rest may reduce symptoms temporarily, addressing the underlying cause is essential for long-term recovery.
Physiotherapy Treatment
Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation of iliopsoas bursitis.
At ACE Physio Sports, physiotherapists perform a detailed assessment to identify the cause of the inflammation and develop a personalised treatment plan.
Treatment may include:
Manual Therapy
Hands-on techniques to improve hip mobility and reduce muscle tightness.
Stretching Exercises
Targeted stretches help relieve tension in the iliopsoas muscle and surrounding tissues.
Strengthening Exercises
Strengthening of the hip and core muscles improves joint stability and reduces strain on the bursa.
Activity Modification
Advice on posture, movement patterns, and activity adjustments to reduce stress on the hip.
Electrotherapy
Therapies such as ultrasound may be used to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Gradual Return to Activity
A structured rehabilitation programme helps patients safely return to exercise and sports.
These treatments help relieve symptoms and prevent recurrence.
What Shouldn’t I Do?
If you have iliopsoas bursitis, certain activities can worsen the condition.
Avoid:
- Continuing activities that cause hip pain
- Repetitive hip flexion movements
- Sudden increases in exercise intensity
- Prolonged sitting without movement
- Ignoring persistent hip pain
Proper rehabilitation helps prevent worsening symptoms.
Long-Term Effects or Recovery
Most cases of iliopsoas bursitis improve within a few weeks with appropriate physiotherapy treatment.
Physiotherapy helps:
- Reduce inflammation and pain
- Improve hip mobility and flexibility
- Strengthen supporting muscles
- Prevent recurrence of hip problems
Early treatment significantly improves recovery outcomes.
Why Choose ACE Physio Sports
At ACE Physio Sports, we provide specialised physiotherapy treatment for hip injuries and musculoskeletal conditions.
Our physiotherapy approach includes:
- Comprehensive hip assessments
- Personalised rehabilitation programmes
- Manual therapy and mobility techniques
- Strengthening and flexibility training
- Sports injury rehabilitation
Our goal is to help patients reduce pain, restore mobility, and safely return to daily activities and sports.
Book Appointment
If you are experiencing symptoms of iliopsoas bursitis, our physiotherapists at ACE Physio Sports can help.
Website https://acephysiosport.com
Phone / WhatsApp +65 81535374
Email admin@acephysiosport.com
Book your physiotherapy appointment today and begin your hip rehabilitation programme.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my hip hurt so much when lying on your side at night or climbing stairs?
In Iliopsoas Bursitis, the bursa — a small fluid-filled sac that cushions joint tissues — becomes inflamed and extremely sensitive to pressure or movement. Physiotherapy reduces this inflammation through targeted treatment and teaches you how to offload the bursa during recovery.
Can I recover from Iliopsoas Bursitis without a cortisone injection?
Many patients recover fully without injections. Physiotherapy-led load management, postural correction, manual therapy, and progressive strengthening of the surrounding muscles are the first-line treatment and very effective for most cases.
How long does Iliopsoas Bursitis take to resolve with physiotherapy?
Most cases improve significantly within 4–8 weeks of consistent physiotherapy. Recurrence is common when the underlying cause — such as muscle weakness or poor posture — isn't addressed, which is why physiotherapy targets the root cause, not just the symptom.
Ready to start your recovery?
Our specialist physiotherapists are here to help. Book a consultation today.
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