What is bursitis of the hip?

A bursa is a fluid-filled sac that functions as a gliding surface to reduce friction between tissues of the body. Bursae are found near joints, especially where tendons attach themselves to the bone.

Bursitis is a condition where the bursa becomes inflamed.

There are a number of bursae around the hip joint.

The trochanteric bursa is located on the side of your hip, and is the bursa that is most commonly inflammed around the hip. It causes a dull, burning pain on the side of the hip. Often, it is difficult to lie on that side, making sleep difficult.